Michael Chandler will be ready to step in and fight Khabib Nurmagomedov or Justin Gaethje at UFC 254 if his services as the backup are needed, and he appears to be extremely confident in both potential matchups. Chandler (21-5 MMA, 0-0 UFC), a former three-time Bellator lightweight champion, was signed to the UFC this month and immediately placed in a prominent position. He will serve as the replacement fighter should Nurmagomedov (28-0 MMA, 12-0 UFC) or Gaethje (22-2 MMA, 5-2 UFC) fail to make it to the octagon for their 155-pound title unification bout on Oct. 24 at Yas Island in Abu Dhabi. Although Chandler has yet to clash with UFC competition, he said he fancies either potential matchup.