Brendan Schaub has expressed his opinion on who upcoming prospect Paddy Pimblett should confront next, following his standout showing at UFC 314. Schaub advocates for a calculated approach to fight selection, suggesting that Pimblett faces Justin Gaethje rather than formidable competitors such as Dustin Poirier or Charles Oliveira.
After Pimblett’s victory over Michael Chandler at UFC 314, which likely propels him into the lightweight top 10, Schaub believes the UFC should thoughtfully manage his future opponents. The challenge lies in balancing a need for credible opposition with ensuring a positive career progression. Poirier and Oliveira are seasoned, skilled fighters who could potentially impede Pimblett’s rising trajectory.
Gaethje, despite his impressive career history, represents a potentially more surmountable opponent from Schaub’s perspective. Gaethje’s forward-pressing fighting style paired with a less impenetrable defense may provide Pimblett a chance to solidify a win against a well-recognized name within the division.
“From an organizational standpoint, I see a strategic path for Pimblett that seeks success. It’s not to imply that this would be an effortless fight. I admire Gaethje. He’s a warrior with whom I have a longstanding acquaintance. The point is, from a stylistic viewpoint, considering the top three potential rivals Pimblett can face, the UFC should plan to improve Pimblett’s credibility for a title shot,” Schaub noted.
“A battle with [Ilia] Topuria or Islam [Makhachev] is not on the cards at this juncture. It would be illogical, especially in the aftermath of his win over Chandler,” opined Schaub. “You set up a match between Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett to pave the way for him to challenge for the title against someone like Topuria. The thought of defeating Topuria is… It’s a serious prospect. We’ll grapple with that issue when we get there.”
“Out of the top three lightweight contenders, namely Dustin Poirier, Charles Oliveira, and Justin Gaethje, it’s a tedious task to face either Poirier or Oliveira. Can Pimblett triumph over them? It’s a possibility. But it would be an uphill battle. He would be the underdog against these competitors,” shared Schaub.
Following his impressive win against Michael Chandler at UFC 314, Paddy Pimblett made no secret of his intent to challenge the fiercest rivals within the lightweight division. The rising British MMA talent targeted Justin Gaethje, Dustin Poirier, and even Charles Oliveira. Pimblett has expressed his desire to ascertain who the superior submission artist within the division is through an eventual confrontation.
Dustin Poirier, offering his insights as a UFC 314 desk analyst, had nothing but praise for Pimblett’s performance against Chandler. Commenting on Pimblett’s future in the sport, Poirier noted: “His next bout needs to be a high-profile one. Perhaps challenge fighters like [Mateusz] Gamrot, Arman [Tsarukyan], or [Charles] Oliveira.”
Poirier continued, “Regrettably, I have other commitments and won’t be available, but as a fan of the sport, I’d enjoy watching him take on Dan Hooker. This bout has the potential to be spectacular. The hype leading up to it would be riveting. Dan’s apt to exchange blows, has solid takedown defense, and is good on the ground. This is the match to make, in my view.”
Such a match-up would not only promise a thrilling fight, with Dan Hooker’s stand-and-trade approach and solid ground game, but also inevitably spark an enthralling build-up that could capture widespread attention and hype. This strategic choice could ensure an entertaining spectacle while simultaneously testing Pimblett’s varying skills and giving him the opportunity to prove himself against another recognized name in the division.
Still, regardless of the fan excitement or speculation surrounding different opponents, Pimblett’s immediate future rests primarily in the hands of the UFC matchmaking team. They are tasked with the crucial decision-making that navigates the fine balance between pitting him against worthy adversaries and safeguarding his upward career progression within a highly competitive division.
Thus, following his impressive showing in UFC 314, Paddy Pimblett has not just emerged a victorious fighter with promising potential, but also as a strategic asset for the UFC. With Poirier’s endorsement, Schaub’s matchmaking strategies, the fans’ growing anticipation, and his own budding ambitions, Pimblett’s pathway will undoubtedly be one closely watched in the MMA community.
It’s clear that his journey after UFC 314, whether he ends up clashing with Gaethje, Hooker, or another top contender, will severely test his fighting skills and mental fortitude. However, with his recent victory and increasing confidence, Pimblett may just be the new contender on the rise that the lightweight division needs.