Paddy Pimblett delivered the biggest performance of his UFC career at UFC 314, scoring a dominant third-round TKO victory over former Bellator champion Michael Chandler.
Fighting in the co-main event at the Kaseya Center, Pimblett (23-3 MMA, 7-0 UFC) controlled the bout from start to finish, silencing critics who questioned his level of competition and place among the UFC elite.
UFC CEO Dana White was among those impressed, praising the Englishman’s growth and resilience.
“People keep counting him out, but he keeps looking better, better, and better every time he shows up,” White said at the post-fight press conference. “Paddy Pimblett showed tonight he’s the real deal. Beating Michael Chandler, and beating him the way he did — I don’t know how you can doubt the kid anymore.”
Following the win, Pimblett didn’t shy away from setting his sights on the top of the lightweight division. He called out top contenders including Dustin Poirier, Charles Oliveira, Justin Gaethje, and Arman Tsarukyan.
White believes Pimblett is ready for that next step.
“He’s in that spot where he’s going to be fighting top guys,” White said.
With a perfect UFC record and growing star power, Pimblett is quickly becoming one of the promotion’s most exciting rising names.
Photo: Megan Briggs/Getty Images
