Michael Chandler Trained With Actor Tom Hardy
The veteran UFC fighter joined the actor for close-range combat drills at his private gym.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Mixed Martial Arts
Live Poll
Do you believe athletes should continue their career after suffering four consecutive professional losses?
UFC veteran Michael Chandler, 40, recently trained with actor Tom Hardy. The pair focused on close-range fighting drills as Chandler continues to pursue his career despite a challenging recent streak.
Why it matters
The collaboration highlights the growing crossover between Hollywood and the world of Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Hardy has demonstrated legitimate grappling skills, notably winning gold at the 2022 Milton Keynes Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Open.
Michael Chandler currently holds a 23-11 professional MMA record and is 2-6 within the UFC. He is currently on a four-fight losing streak, most recently suffering a first-round TKO loss to Mauricio Ruffy in June 2026.
The players
Michael Chandler
He is a professional mixed martial artist who currently holds a 23-11 career record.
Tom Hardy
He is a prominent actor known for his film roles and his dedication to competitive Brazilian jiu-jitsu.
Mauricio Ruffy
He is a professional mixed martial artist who defeated Michael Chandler at UFC Freedom 250.
The details
Chandler and Hardy worked on technical close-range fighting drills during their session. Hardy, who began his own martial arts journey in 2011 to prepare for a film role, maintains an active interest in Brazilian jiu-jitsu training.
Timeline
2011: Tom Hardy began his martial arts training for a film role.
2022: Hardy won a gold medal at the Milton Keynes BJJ Open.
June 2026: Chandler lost a first-round TKO to Mauricio Ruffy at UFC Freedom 250.
September 2026: Chandler confirmed his intention to continue his professional fighting career.
Season Trajectory
This training session occurs as Michael Chandler attempts to stabilize his professional standing after four consecutive losses. His commitment to active training signals an effort to remain relevant in the competitive lightweight landscape.
Chandler remains an active competitor despite his 2-6 UFC record and recent first-round TKO loss in June 2026. These drills indicate his continued reliance on high-level grappling preparation for future bouts.
The takeaway
Maintaining technical training during a losing streak is a standard approach for veterans looking to revitalize their career paths. Chandler's work with a high-level hobbyist like Hardy showcases how elite fighters integrate varied training environments to refine their skill sets.
Further reading
For more updates on professional fighters and training camps, visit our Mixed Martial Arts section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by LowKickMMA.
Live Poll
Do you believe athletes should continue their career after suffering four consecutive professional losses?
