Michael Chandler (photo via Bellator)

By FCF Staff

There’s been no shortage of talk about fighters competing in more than one division as of late, or attempting to win more than one division’s title. But, as Michael Chandler gets set to fight Benson Henderson tonight at Bellator 165, he’s just focused on defending the promotion’s 155 belt.

The two will battle in the main event of tonight’s event, which will take place at the SAP Center in San Jose. The bout will mark the first time Chandler has defended the title, since he reclaimed it this past June, by knocking out Patricky Freire.

During a recent media call for Bellator 165, Chandler was asked about whether he’s considered making a title run in another division. The 30 year-old stated (quote via Bellator press release):

“I haven’t put a lot of thought into it. For me, I’m just looking for the biggest fight I can get. I know there’s no way I could make 145 lbs., since I walk around at about 190 lbs., between fights. So, I’m not interested in losing the muscle mass that I’ve worked so hard to build. If anything, I would jump up to 170 lbs., but right now I’m focused on my fight this Saturday night and I’m excited to get out there and perform.”

When asked if today’s fight is the most important in his career, Chandler said:

“Every opponent is important. Every single time we fight, we’re putting ourselves, our livelihood, our records, and our reputation on the line. It just so happens for me, I get an opportunity to fight a guy who’s been a champion and has done some great things in the sport. But luckily, it’s the right time for me and the wrong time for him. I’m extremely excited to go out there and make a statement with this fight on Saturday night. He’s definitely a great, willing opponent, but I’m excited to go out there and get the finish.”

This past April, Henderson challenged Andrey Koreshkov when he was the reigning 170 champ, and lost via decision. More recently Koreshkov was knocked out by Douglas Lima at Bellator 164 earlier this month.