Paddy Pimblett’s journey in MMA nearly ended before it truly began, as he contemplated walking away from the sport due to financial struggles and lack of motivation. However, an early loss in his career became a pivotal moment that reignited his determination and paved the way for his rise in the UFC.
Since making his UFC debut four years ago, the Scouser has steadily climbed the lightweight ranks without suffering a defeat, remaining undefeated through seven fights. His winning streak and dynamic fighting style have earned him five performance bonuses, including his dominant victories over King Green and Michael Chandler. At UFC 314 in April 2024, Pimblett’s decisive win over Chandler lifted him to eighth in the lightweight division.
How a Setback Motivated Pimblett to Refocus on His Ambitions
During the weekend of UFC 205, when Conor McGregor made history by winning titles in two divisions simultaneously, Pimblett was defending his Cage Warriors lightweight title against Julian Erosa in London. At that time, Pimblett had recovered from a previous defeat—his fifth professional fight—that nearly ended his MMA aspirations.
Reflecting on this period in an interview, Pimblett revealed how the loss was both a low point and a wake-up call. He admitted that before the defeat, he had been “coasting” and assumed victories would come easily, which led to complacency.
I left college, went pro, but even when I went pro I was thinking about swerving MMA because I wasn’t earning enough,
Pimblett said. It was getting me depressed, and then I lost, and it lit a fire under my arse.
I wish I didn’t have that loss but, at the same time, it was the best thing that ever happened to me.
At the time I was coasting and went into that fight thinking I’d already won it. That just showed me that you’ve never won a fight until you go in there and get your hand raised.
Pimblett’s Rivalry with Ilia Topuria Shapes His Path to the Title
On the road to his ultimate goal—to become the UFC lightweight champion—Pimblett faces a significant obstacle in Ilia Topuria, a rival whose power has overwhelmed many opponents. Their tension dates back years, including a near altercation at a fighter hotel before a UFC event in London, setting the stage for a highly anticipated clash.
Pimblett is confident in his ability to defeat Topuria, a belief he shared in a conversation with Tom Aspinall. He insists that unlike others who rely on boxing matches against Topuria, he will use a comprehensive MMA skill set to exploit Topuria’s weaknesses.
No one goes for his weaknesses when they fight. Everyone just decides to have a boxing match with him. I’m not going to come out and have a boxing match with him,
Pimblett said.
As I said, I know I’d beat him up. And I reckon I’d proper hurt him and just shut everyone up even more, like I love to do.
Before Pimblett can face Topuria, several results must unfold. Topuria must first defeat Charles Oliveira at UFC 317 on June 28 to claim the lightweight championship. Additionally, Pimblett will likely need to secure a victory over a top-five contender to firmly establish himself for a title shot.
What Lies Ahead for Paddy Pimblett and His Rising UFC Career
Pimblett’s career turnaround following his early loss highlights the importance of resilience and focus in MMA. His unbeaten streak in the UFC and recent high-profile wins have put him on the cusp of the lightweight title picture, making him one of the most exciting prospects in the division.
As Pimblett continues to hone his skills and climb the rankings, his rivalry with Topuria promises to be a defining storyline in the division. Both fighters have the potential to shape the lightweight division’s future, but only after key matchups and title changes take place in the coming months.