Stars come and go in the UFC. But the biggest names tend to stick around for years. Despite his absence from the sport, Conor McGregor is probably the biggest name we’ve ever seen. However, he isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. In fact, there are several new kids on the block that could dominate the sport in the future, including the likes of Paddy Pimblett.
The Liverpudlian beat Benoit Saint-Denis in style
Fresh off the back of a stunning first-round submission against Frenchman Benoit Saint-Denis, the Liverpudlian has garnered plenty of attention since his UFC 329 triumph. For many UFC fans, it was the perfect comeback following “Paddy The Baddy’s” interim UFC Lightweight Championship defeat to Justin Gaethje. It showed resilience, high-level skill, and just how dangerously awkward the Englishman is.
Alongside his skill inside the Octagon, though, it also highlighted the clear fact that Paddy Pimblett is a star in the making. In fact, with over a million subscribers to his name on YouTube and fans backing him in fights when assessing the latest DraftKings UFC odds, the 31-year-old has a massive future in the sport. For some, he could become even bigger than the aforementioned legends like Conor McGregor. Here’s why below.
Even more likable
For starters, while Conor McGregor’s exploits inside the Octagon are undeniable, his behavior outside it has led many MMA fans to turn their backs on the Irishman. A character who doesn’t always cover himself in glory, his reputation has taken a battering in recent years. It’s therefore refreshing to see the likes of Paddy Pimblett emerge instead, supporting local people in his city of Liverpool, sharing struggles, and bringing unrivaled energy to big fight nights. Paddy Pimblett is clearly a big fan of “The Notorious” and aims to sell fights like the UFC legend has, but away from any pre-fight commitments, he’s just a much more likable fighter than today’s Conor McGregor is.
Consummate professional outside of the octagon
Alongside his likability outside of the Octagon, Paddy Pimblett is a consummate professional. Sure, he’s been seen devouring huge feasts and putting on weight in-between fights, but that’s purely because he has the ability to cut weight easily. In his last two fights, the Scouser also admitted he let himself go a bit too much, which has motivated him to stay in better shape. His dedication and love of MMA are unquestionable, though. He’s always supporting teammates at events, Pimblett meets aspiring professionals and gives them advice, and he’s always in the gym a week or two after his bouts. Paddy Pimblett has matured, and it’s great to see.
Talent evident
As mentioned already, Paddy Pimblett is a tricky opponent to come up against. While he does need to work on his striking, plus a few other areas of his game, he’s a dangerous fighter to face given his awkwardness. His skillset is unique compared to other fighters, so many of his rivals struggle to contain him. With more fights and a potentially more well-rounded fighter to come, Paddy Pimblett could reach the very top in the coming years.
Easier competition
While “Paddy The Baddy’s” talent speaks for itself, there is an argument to suggest that he has faced weaker competition than Conor McGregor did. Still, Pimblett can only beat what’s in front of him, and in a division containing the likes of Ilia Topuria and Max Holloway, he could rack up some statement wins and make even more of a name for himself in the near future.