The Charles Oliveira vs. Michael Chandler rematch has been in the making for years. Google's AI Gemini has given a decisive prediction for the upcoming Oliveira-Chandler showdown, which will co-headline UFC 309 on Nov. 16, 2024.
Their first encounter transpired at UFC 262 (May 2021), wherein Chandler almost stopped Oliveira with strikes in round one. 'Do Bronx' turned the tables and TKO'd Chandler with a barrage of strikes in round two. The Brazilian thereby captured the vacant UFC lightweight title, which he eventually lost on the scales.
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The AI prediction suggested the 38-year-old Chandler is a daunting adversary, equipped with power that's explosive and an approach of never giving up. Nevertheless, it deemed Oliveira the clear favorite in their rematch.
It listed the 35-year-old Oliveira's strengths as submission proficiency, improved striking skills, and vast experience in high-level competition.
The ex-UFC lightweight champion's BJJ (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu) black belt was referenced, as was his accomplishment of having the highest number of submission wins in UFC history (16). His grappling prowess was labeled greater than Chandler's, adding that 'Do Bronx' could take advantage of any error 'Iron' makes on the mat.
Secondly, it was highlighted that over the years, Oliveira's striking skills have considerably evolved. He's become a more powerful and accurate striker, and he could surely hurt 'Iron' in the stand-up. Thirdly, it was emphasized that Oliveira boasts more UFC experience than Chandler, has faced tougher opposition, and has an advantage in high-profile matchups.
Chandler's strengths were noted in the prediction as his explosive power and aggression. Underscoring Chandler's famed destructive KO power, it was pointed out that he's capable of ending a match with one punch. Also, 'Iron' is an unrelenting combatant who consistently exerts pressure on his foe, which makes it challenging for them to implement their game plan against him.
Chandler was acknowledged as a dangerous matchup, but Oliveira's better grappling and evolved striking skills are expected to hand him a major edge. It predicted that 'Do Bronx' would defeat Chandler via submission or by decision.
That said, it warned that anything's possible in the sport of MMA. Though 'Iron' could secure an upset victory, Oliveira was hailed as the more well-rounded and skilled combatant.
Charles Oliveira vs. Michael Chandler: Common opponent picks 'Do Bronx' over 'Iron' at UFC 309
During a recent ESPN MMA appearance, Dustin Poirier addressed the Charles Oliveira vs. Michael Chandler rematch. Poirier lost to Oliveira via third-round submission in Dec. 2021 and defeated Chandler via third-round submission in Nov. 2022.
The Louisianian explained that Oliveira (34-10, 1 No Contest) would win if he brought the same mindset he did when he faced him and Chandler (23-8 MMA) back in 2021. Poirier indicated that Chandler is an incredible, explosive athlete and could put 'Do Bronx' away. Regardless, he feels Oliveira is more skilled. Discussing the "fun matchup," he asserted:
"I just think Charles is going to be better everywhere, on the feet and on the ground."
Furthermore, Poirier also offered an intriguing response to the rumors regarding the Oliveira-Chandler rematch reportedly being in jeopardy.
Check out Poirier's assessment below: