Michael Chandler suffered a significant setback when facing Paddy Pimblett at UFC 314 in April, a bout many consider Pimblett’s most notable victory to date. Despite Chandler’s background as a former Bellator world champion and his early display of wrestling skills, the momentum soon shifted toward Pimblett, who gained control through striking and grappling exchanges.
During a recent collaboration, English UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall harshly criticized Chandler’s strategy and decision-making inside the octagon. Aspinall expressed disbelief that Chandler, a veteran fighter with numerous bouts, demonstrated what he called poor fight IQ against Pimblett.
“It’s something like bad fight IQ.”
Aspinall further explained that Chandler’s energy management during the fight was questionable, noting that despite his physical fitness, his approach resembled an unsustainable sprint that left him vulnerable.
“He is obviously like a really fit guy, but if you do a sprint for five minutes, no one’s going to be that fit, are they? That’s what he does. He just goes out there, he throws from out here [from outside of range], picking up full blast. It’s mad for someone who has that many fights.”
Paddy Pimblett Observes Michael Chandler’s Frustrating Grappling Tactics
While many expected Chandler’s striking power to pose the greatest threat to Pimblett during their matchup, Pimblett revealed that the grappling aspects, particularly Chandler’s repetitive control methods on the mat, were more troublesome. The lightweight star shared with Aspinall how Chandler’s constant pulling on his elbow caused an uncomfortable mat burn that lasted well after the fight.
“Know what the most annoying thing he did was? When he got me down, and he had me like that, [with] my elbows on the mat, he kept pulling my elbow on the mat, and I had the naughtiest mat burn ever the next day. It’s the worst, I’d rather get punched in the face than a mat burn.”
How the Fight Unfolded and Its Impact on Chandler’s Career
The bout began with Chandler attempting to implement his wrestling skills to control the pace, showing early promise through his takedowns. However, Pimblett successfully countered on the feet before capitalizing on scrambles and grappling exchanges. By the third round, Pimblett landed a decisive knee to Chandler’s head and followed it with ground-and-pound to finish the fight.
This defeat raises questions about Chandler’s tactical execution at the highest level, especially considering his well-established reputation and experience. Both Pimblett and Aspinall pointed out how Chandler’s failure to conserve energy and adjust his game plan allowed Pimblett to dominate.
With this decisive victory, Pimblett continues to build momentum in the lightweight division, while Chandler may need to reassess his strategies to remain competitive. The critique from Aspinall, an elite heavyweight, and Pimblett himself underlines the growing expectation for fighters to demonstrate smarter fight IQ, not just physical prowess.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why did Paddy Pimblett get $200,000?
A. White first agreed to double bonuses when Green asked at the pre-fight press conference last Thursday. Pimblett’s bonus was then increased again on Saturday night. Surprisingly, Pimblett earned this for his first-round submission of Green during the main event.
Q. Is Paddy Pimblett a millionaire?
A. His special charm, especially among British and European fans, has made him a famous figure in MMA. By 2025, Pimblett’s net worth is estimated to be around $5 million. He holds a UFC career record of 22 wins, 3 losses, and no draws. We have witnessed his rapid ascent in the MMA world.
Q. Is Paddy Pimblett rich?
A. Currently, there are different estimates of Paddy Pimblett’s wealth. Some sources estimate it to be approximately $5 million, which equals about £3.9 million. Other sources suggest it could be between $3 million and $5 million for the year 2024.
Q. How rich is Paddy Pimblett?
A. Pimblett is expected to have a net worth of around $5 million by 2025. His UFC career record stands at 22 wins, 3 losses, and 0 draws.