Mixed martial arts contender Paddy Pimblett is preparing to go toe-to-toe with Michael Chandler in what he predicts will be the biggest challenge of his UFC career, this upcoming Saturday at UFC 314. The 30-year-old fighter, a native of Liverpool, has rapidly ascended in his UFC career, dazzling the masses since his debut in the promotion in the fall of 2021. A triumph against Chandler, currently ranked eighth in the lightweight category, may have profound implications for Pimblett’s pursuit of a world title.
‘The Baddy,’ as Pimblett is popularly known, boasts an unblemished record in the UFC, with significant victories over fighters like Tony Ferguson and King Green. In his most recent fight in Manchester last July, he astoundingly subdued Green in a submission match. Pimblett has credited his twin daughters, born three months prior to his latest win, as a renewed source of inspiration and drive.
Pimblett has been on hiatus from the Octagon since his last win, but his enthusiasm remains robust. His love for the sport is still very much evident from his recently declared message: ‘We crushed the fight simulation, 5×5’s are in the vault, pumped for next week! I’m prepared for a five-round duel, but this conflict won’t last the distance. My team deserves enormous gratitude for the most effective training camp we have ever had… my sparring partners have pushed me to the peak fitness and strength of my life. I truly am in the fittest form I’ve ever been in!’
Publicly known for his weight fluctuations during non-competitive periods, Pimblett has still managed to win the admiration of his fans with his physique, as UFC 314 approaches. He even gave his followers a glimpse of his intense preparations for the event a month ago.
His opponent, Michael Chandler, who is eight years older than Pimblett, is banking on his three additional years of professional experience in the Octagon as leverage for the upcoming five-round fight. Chandler has faced and held his own against some of the world’s top fighters, highlighting his challenge against Charles Oliveira for the UFC lightweight title back in 2021.
In his most recent fight last November at UFC 309, Chandler engaged in a rematch against Oliveira, where he was ousted by a unanimous decision. The decision to pit him against Pimblett came after a planned fight with Conor McGregor fell through following an announcement confirming McGregor’s toe injury during practice.
Pimblett launched his martial arts journey in January of 2010 at Next Generation MMA in Liverpool, a place he continues to call his training home. This gym is well-regarded as a breeding ground for some of Britain’s finest MMA talent.
However, Chandler’s recent performance has been a stumbling block, with just one win in his last five fights. His losses include two to Oliveira, and matches against Justin Gaethje and Dustin Poirier, all following his title clash in 2021.