Michael Chandler may have taken a step closer to a different career path.

The former UFC lightweight title challenger made his WWE debut on Wednesday night, appearing in the company’s NXT brand.

His future inside the Octagon is uncertain following a difficult run. Chandler’s knockout loss to Mauricio Ruffy at the White House this past June was the American’s sixth defeat in eight UFC fights.

In terms of what could come after his MMA retirement, ‘Iron’ has teased a professional wrestling venture, and he may have moved closer to following through on that this week.

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Michael Chandler gets swatted across the ring during his WWE debut as part of NXT match

Chandler revealed talks with WWE boss Triple H in the summer of 2025. Since then, his form in the UFC has continued to decline, with the former Bellator champ now on a dismal four-fight losing skid.

Many believe it’s time for the 40-year-old lightweight to wrap up his career inside the cage, especially given the damage he consistently sustains in his fights.

The end may finally be nigh for Chandler’s UFC career, especially after he recently advanced plans for a potential pro wrestling venture.

Chandler’s first WWE role came in the form of special guest referee for the ‘unsanctioned match’ between Dion Lennox and Cruz Montana on November 4.

The UFC fighter had some physical involvement, as he got launched across the ring by Lennox at one point during the match.

‘Iron’ was shoved the full length of the ring after attempting to intervene as Lennox worked his opponent in one of the corners.

There was a tense face-off between the pair after Chandler returned to his feet, perhaps setting up a future storyline between them.

Chandler’s desire to cross over to the pro wrestling world is no surprise.

Many MMA fans have long tipped him for success in that entertainment realm, given his charisma on the microphone and habit of delivering memorable moments during his Octagon interviews.

It remains to be seen whether he will commit to a full WWE run and compete in matches himself, but the American’s comments last year made it seem like there is clear interest from Triple H for him to do so.

The likes of Brock Lesnar and Ronda Rousey have enjoyed successful WWE careers, while Daniel Cormier also appeared as a special guest referee at a past event.