Hey! Ever wondered about the story behind that adorable kid you see with UFC fighter Michael Chandler? That’s Hap Whitaker Chandler, and his story might just make your day.
I’ve been covering the sports celebs stories for years, and few stories warm my heart like this one. Let’s dive into this amazing journey of family, love, and the real meaning of being a dad.
Hap Whitaker Chandler: Quick Bio
| Detail | Information |
| Full Name | Hap Whitaker Chandler |
| Age | 7 years old (2025) |
| Birth Year | Approximately 2018 |
| Adoption Date | Early 2018 |
| Parents | Michael & Brie Chandler |
| Siblings | Ace Chandler (adopted 2022) |
| Named After | Hap Whitney (wrestling coach) & Mike Whitaker (family friend) |
| Current Residence | Nashville, Tennessee |
| Father’s Occupation | UFC Fighter |
| Notable Moments | “Ice mask” video after UFC 268 (2021) |
| “Sandwich hug” video (2024) | |
| Family Philanthropy | Blessed Threads (supporting children with cancer) |
| Adoption Type | Open adoption with some birth family contact |
| Known For | Being part of a high-profile transracial adoption story |
| Inspiring many UFC fans through family’s openness |
How Hap Joined the Chandler Family?
Brie Willet Chandler had dreamed of adoption since her teenage years. She volunteered at “Granny’s House” in Columbia, Missouri – a program like Big Brothers/Big Sisters – where kids would ask, “Can I go home with you?”
When she and Michael Chandler finally completed their adoption paperwork in late 2017, something incredible happened – they got approved and received a call about a potential match just SIX MINUTES later!
The Chandlers initially wanted a newborn but fell in love with a nine-month-old boy. When Michael saw Hap’s photo, he teared up instantly: “That’s my son.”
The birth mom, just 17 years old, chose them after seeing Michael was a professional athlete. After completing the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC) protocol, they drove home to Tennessee with their new son.
What’s in a Name? The Special Meaning Behind “Hap”
Hap Whitney was a legendary University of Missouri wrestling coach and four-time state champion. As a former Mizzou wrestler, Michael won the “Hap Whitney Award” twice during his college career.
The middle name “Whitaker” came from Mike Whitaker, a friend Michael met at a restaurant in Nashville. These connections make Hap’s name a tribute to people who’ve inspired Michael’s journey.
Early Years: Growing Up Chandler
Hap’s first birthday (January 23, 2018) came just three days after Michael’s fight with Goiti Yamauchi. Talk about a week of celebrations!
For Michael, becoming a dad changed everything. His training camp routine had to balance fight preparation with family time. He’d travel between Nashville and Florida for training, finding it tough to leave his new son but determined to excel at both roles.
What stands out about those early days is how Michael embraced fatherhood with the same intensity he brings to the octagon. Being a champion fighter is one thing – being a champion dad is something else entirely.
The Family Grows: Welcoming Ace
In April 2022, the Chandlers welcomed their second adopted son, Ace Chandler. Born on April 19, 2022, Ace joined the family just two weeks before UFC 274 (Michael’s fight against Tony Ferguson).
Michael left his training camp to be with his wife and new son during the adoption process – despite preparing for a huge fight. That speaks volumes about his priorities.
Brie shared that Ace’s birth mother is “a beautiful soul” and called their relationship “one of my favorite relationships.” The open adoption approach has created meaningful connections beyond what many might expect.
The bond between these brothers became special immediately, with Hap embracing his big brother role from day one.
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Hap Whitaker Public Moments and Media Attention
Remember that viral video from after UFC 268? Michael appeared wearing an ice mask after his brutal fight with Justin Gaethje, gently explaining his injuries to Hap: “I have to inform you that your father has made some really bad decisions in his last fight.”
During the lead-up to UFC 262 in May 2021, Michael shared how much motivation Hap gave him: “Our son Hap is almost four years old, and he’s just the greatest little human being on Earth.” (www.essentiallysports.com)
Early in 2024, fans swooned when Hap interrupted an interview to ask Michael to give Brie a hug. They ended up in a “sandwich hug” with Hap in the middle – a sweet glimpse into their family dynamic.
“I’m Not Raising Black Children, I’m Raising Children”: Chandler’s Parenting Philosophy
On The Shawn Ryan Show in 2023, Michael said: “I’m not raising black children, I’m raising children. Whether you are black or white, there are certain things about being a man and being a good man when comes to character and integrity.”
He focuses on universal values: “Being a good man, a man of reputation, none of that has to do with skin color. Everything has to do with the character of the man.”
Michael balances his professional identity with fatherhood, explaining complex concepts like injuries to his young sons with humor and age-appropriate honesty. Seeing life through his children’s eyes has given him meaning beyond wins and losses in the cage.
Beyond the Family: The Chandlers’ Philanthropy
The Chandlers live their values through their work with Blessed Threads, an organization supporting children battling cancer. They channel Michael’s platform as a UFC fighter toward making a difference.
Their philanthropic work aligns with the values that led Brie to pursue adoption from a young age. They’re creating opportunities for children in challenging circumstances – both in their home and beyond.
Their family story has inspired many UFC fans, helping normalize and celebrate adoption as a beautiful way of building families.
Hap Whitaker Chandler Life in 2025: Where Are They Now?
In 2025, Hap Whitaker Chandler is about seven years old and thriving in elementary school in Nashville, Tennessee.
Like any kid, he’s developing his own interests and personality. Unlike most kids, he occasionally appears in pre-fight or post-fight family moments that give MMA fans a glimpse into the Chandlers’ home life.
Michael remains active in the UFC, balancing his fighting career with being a dad to two energetic boys. Both Hap and Ace have become familiar faces to fans, humanizing the often brutal world of combat sports.
Impact and Legacy
This story shows the transformative power of love and family bonds formed through choice rather than biology.
The Chandlers have been open about their experiences, providing visibility to transracial adoption while demonstrating that families are defined by love and shared values, not genetics.
Michael has repeatedly said: “So many people have said we have given such a gift to these young men, but to us, it’s always felt like the exact opposite…we feel like we have won the lottery every single day.”
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Addressing Common Questions
Does Hap have contact with his birth family?
The Chandlers maintain appropriate boundaries here, but Michael has spoken positively about Hap’s birth mother, calling her “a beautiful soul.”
How has Michael balanced his UFC career with fatherhood?
By prioritizing family above all else. He’s left training camps for important family moments and brings his sons to appropriate professional events.
Has the family faced criticism for transracial adoption?
Yes, particularly on X (formerly Twitter) in 2022-2023. Michael responded by focusing on universal values rather than racial differences.
What inspired the Chandlers to adopt?
Brie’s experiences volunteering with children when she was younger sparked her desire to adopt someday.
Are they planning to adopt more children?
The family hasn’t shared public plans about expanding further, but they clearly embrace their journey as adoptive parents.
Conclusion: The Real Championship
When Michael Chandler steps into the octagon, he’s fighting for a belt. But at home, he’s already won the most important championship – being a loving dad.
The story of Hap Whitaker Chandler and his brother Ace reminds us that family isn’t defined by DNA but by love, choice, and commitment. It’s about showing up every day for the people who call you Mom or Dad.
Whether you’re considering adoption yourself or just appreciate a heartwarming story, the Chandlers show us that sometimes life’s best blessings come in unexpected packages – maybe even with just a six-minute notice.
Note: This article is based on publicly available interviews, media appearances, and credible news sources related to Michael Chandler and his family. All information has been compiled and presented with the intent to inform and inspire, while respecting the privacy of those involved.
Hi there! I’m vance, the editor of SportingQue. A biographical researcher with 10+ years covering public figures, culture, and legacy. I love sports, and I love sharing stories with you.
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