In an electrifying rematch at UFC 309, Charles Oliveira once again dashed Michael Chandler’s ambitions when he claimed victory on Saturday night at the iconic Madison Square Garden in New York City.
Following his stunning performance in May 2021, where Oliveira (34-10 MMA, 23-10 UFC) stopped Chandler (23-9 MMA, 2-4 UFC) with a barrage of strikes in a vacant lightweight title fight, Oliveira continued his dominance. This time, he earned his win by unanimous decision, with judges scoring the bout 49-46, 49-46, and 49-45 in his favor.
PRE-FIGHT
📍 @CharlesDoBronxs & @MikeChandlerMMA ont fait leur arrivée au MSG en vue du combat coprincipal de l’#UFC309! pic.twitter.com/pCrFnRsJf0
— UFC Québec (@UFCQuebec) November 17, 2024
Your #UFC309 co-main event 🔥
🇧🇷 Charles Oliveira vs Michael Chandler 2 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/thWoJYIigm
— UFC Europe (@UFCEurope) November 17, 2024
Wrapped for the rematch 😤
The #UFC309 co-main event is almost here! pic.twitter.com/niiZm3HgeU
— UFC (@ufc) November 17, 2024
It’s time for VIOLENCE! Who wins the rematch: Charles Oliveira or Michael Chandler? #UFC309
Full coverage: pic.twitter.com/loldLpnIf5
— MMA Junkie (@MMAJunkie) November 17, 2024
THE FIGHT
OLIVEIRA HURTS CHANDLER! #UFC309 pic.twitter.com/v3hmGCi8zg
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) November 17, 2024
THE AFTERMATH
#UFC309 results: Charles Oliveira (@CharlesDoBronxs) def. Michael Chandler via unanimous decision (49-46, 49-46, 49-45)
Full coverage: pic.twitter.com/34YomzdVpO
— MMA Junkie (@MMAJunkie) November 17, 2024
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What does Michael Chandler need to improve on in order to be more successful against top-tier opponents in the future?
**Interview with MMA Analyst, Sarah Thompson**
**Editor:** Thanks for joining us today, Sarah. UFC 309 was quite the event, especially with the highly anticipated rematch between Charles Oliveira and Michael Chandler. What did you think of Oliveira’s performance?
**Sarah:** Thank you for having me! Oliveira’s performance was nothing short of spectacular. He showcased his skills, proving that his victory over Chandler in their first fight was not a fluke. Winning by unanimous decision with judges scoring it 49-46, 49-46, and 49-45 shows his control throughout the fight.
**Editor:** Absolutely! The judges’ scores indicate it was a decisive win. Did you notice any particular strategies Oliveira used that set him apart from Chandler this time?
**Sarah:** Definitely! Oliveira was more calculated this time around. He utilized excellent footwork and kept the pressure on Chandler without overcommitting to striking, which was a significant issue in their last matchup. His ability to stay composed and counter effectively was key to his success.
**Editor:** Chandler has had challenges against Oliveira in both bouts. What do you think he needs to focus on moving forward in his career?
**Sarah:** Chandler needs to reassess his approach in fights against top-tier opponents. He’s explosive and has knockout power, but he sometimes gets reckless, leaving himself open to counters. He may benefit from refining his striking defense and incorporating more grappling, given his wrestling background.
**Editor:** Looking ahead, what do you think this victory means for Oliveira’s title aspirations?
**Sarah:** This win solidifies Oliveira’s place as a top contender in the lightweight division. Given his history as a former champion and his current performance, he’s definitely in line for another title shot. The lightweight division is always competitive, but he has proven he belongs at the top.
**Editor:** Great insights, Sarah. One last question: how do you think fans will remember this matchup in the long run?
**Sarah:** Fans will likely see this rematch as a defining moment for both fighters. Oliveira has cemented his status as an elite lightweight, while Chandler will have to work hard to redefine his path. This fight adds to their rivalry narrative, making it one of the memorable matchups in UFC history.
**Editor:** Thank you for your time, Sarah. It was a pleasure talking to you about UFC 309!
**Sarah:** Thank you! I enjoyed it.