The British lightweight showcased his evolving skillset by outstriking and out-grappling the home favourite American veteran, ultimately securing a referee stoppage due to relentless ground strikes.
The highly anticipated bout, watched by an attending President Trump, was dubbed by many as the "people's main event" due to the fervent fanbases of both fighters – the charismatic Pimblett and the all-action Chandler – lived up to its billing at the Kaseya Centre.
In his post-fight interview, a jubilant Pimblett celebrated emphatically, shouting "What now?" into the cameras and performing a celebratory dance.
He then addressed his doubters after a series of underwhelming performances in previous fights against lower-ranked opposition: "Anyone in the top five, I want that world title.
"All laugh as you want and say I'll never be ranked, I'll never be in the top 10, but what now, you gang of mushrooms?
"I want Dustin (Poirier), Justin (Gaethje), Charles (Oliveira) or Arman (Tsarukyan)."
Evolution of 'The Baddy'
The contrasting entrances set the stage: a smiling and animated Pimblett danced his way to the octagon, while a serious Chandler, draped in the American flag, walked with purposeful focus.
Despite predictions that Chandler's renowned explosiveness would pose a significant threat, the 30-year-old Pimblett demonstrated impressive composure and tactical awareness.
The Liverpudlian effectively utilised his reach in the striking exchanges and proved to be the superior grappler throughout the contest.
The fight saw Pimblett open with a series of leg kicks before Chandler secured an initial takedown, which he failed to capitalise on. As the first round progressed, Pimblett's control of distance began to cause problems for the American.
The grappling exchanges continued into the second round, with Pimblett threatening submissions and igniting the crowd.
The defining moment came in the third round when Pimblett landed a devastating knee, opening a significant cut below Chandler's left eye.
Seizing the opportunity, Pimblett secured a takedown, transitioned to full mount, and unleashed a series of unanswered ground strikes, forcing the referee to intervene.
The victory is expected to propel Pimblett - previously ranked 12th - into the top 10 of the UFC lightweight rankings, with UFC commentator Jon Anik welcoming him to "the elite" of the sport.
Volkanovski returns to the top
Elsewhere, the main event saw Australian Alexander Volkanovski become a two-time champion as he beat Brazil's Diego Lopes by unanimous decision to regain the featherweight championship.
"It's good to be back, I've never felt the love so much. I promised my girls I'd bring the belt back to them," said Volkanovski, who won 48-47, 49-46, 49-46 on the judges' scorecards.
"A lot of people counted me out but to come back and beat a guy like Diego Lopes. For everyone watching, adversity is a privilege. This moment is incredible."