UFC: Potential Opponents for Michael Chandler’s Promotional Debut in 2021

Al Iaquinta UFC Ottawa Weigh-In Credit: Jay Anderson/Cageside Press

Al Iaquinta (#10)

Al Iaquinta hasn’t fought since October of 2019. Could a former champion from another promotion get him back in the Octagon?

Iaquinta has lost three of his last four fights, but remains the tenth-ranked UFC lightweight. The veteran is a tough match-up for anyone, just ask the likes of Khabib Nurmagomedov, Kevin Lee, and Jorge Masvidal. On top of that, the 33-year-old New York-native is a decent draw. Iaquinta has featured in main events in three of his last four bouts, and earned a bonus in two of those fights.

Is it likely? No. But it’s an interesting style match-up with a top-10 ranked opponent, former title-contender, and recent main eventer. If you’re Chandler, you could do a lot worse for your UFC deubt.