UFC set to snap up free agent Michael Chandler with debut set to be against Tony Ferguson in blockbuster fight

MICHAEL CHANDLER is reportedly in talks over a move to UFC – with a debut fight versus Tony Ferguson in the offing.

After his shock defeat to Justin Gaethje, lightweight Ferguson is seeking an opponent for his 30th MMA fight.

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Michael Chandler is reportedly nearing a deal with UFC after his Bellator contract expired[/caption]

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Tony Ferguson could be looking for a new opponent after talks with Dustin Poirier stalled[/caption]

Dustin Poirier had been touted as the most likely rival but talks with UFC over a deal for the 31-year-old have not gone well.

That has brought Chandler, 34, into the picture.

According to ESPN, UFC are in advanced negotiations with the Missouri-born fighter over a contract to fight in the championship.

Chandler fought in Bellator for almost a decade before entering free agency.

In that time, he won Bellator’s lightweight belt three times and claimed both of his last fights via first-round knockouts.

A deal is yet to be finalised but Ferguson is described as the obvious contender to face Chandler – despite his attempts to call out Conor McGregor.

The 36-year-old surrendered a 12-fight win streak in May, losing the Interim Lightweight Championship to late call-up Gaethje.

Whether Ferguson is keen on a bout with Chandler remains to be seen.

Dana White stated earlier in the week that the proposed fight with Poirier was off.

The UFC chief said: “He’s a great kid. I don’t know if it was he didn’t want to fight in Abu Dhabi or what his deal was, he didn’t want to fight. There’s a lot of different ways to turn down a fight.”

However, both Ferguson and Poirier have taken to social media to push for a deal to be reached.

Poirier tweeted “I WANT THE FIGHT” on Wednesday after his potential rival instructed White to “pay the man”.