Paddy Pimblett significantly advanced his quest for a UFC title shot with a decisive victory over Michael Chandler in Miami. The Liverpool native dominated his American opponent, maintaining an aggressive pace and landing powerful strikes throughout the fight.
Pimblett ultimately secured a finish at 3:07 of the third round, extending his unbeaten record within the UFC.
From the outset, Pimblett`s striking proved highly effective, while Chandler primarily sought grappling exchanges. Pimblett sustained his control, landing a crucial knee in the third round that initiated Chandler`s downfall.
“I proved my point. I told everyone I was going to do exactly what I just did. Everyone said I couldn`t stand with him, but who was shooting for takedowns? It was him, because I was picking him apart on the feet.”
“I`m the new guard, he`s the old. I`m the new kid on the block, and I`m coming for these top-five fighters and this belt. Laugh all you want; people have underestimated me my whole life, thinking I wouldn`t amount to anything, but I keep proving them wrong every step of the way. Everyone underestimates me before every fight, and it`s quite annoying.”
— Paddy Pimblett
Pimblett believes that one more victory will position him for a shot at the UFC lightweight title.
“I want that world title. Some say I`ll never be champion, never get a title run, or never even be in the top 10. But look at me now.”
— Paddy Pimblett
Michael Chandler, who will soon turn 39, may find this loss to Pimblett pushing him closer to retirement.
In the co-main event of UFC 314, Alexander Volkanovski reclaimed the featherweight championship, defeating Diego Lopes by unanimous decision with scorecards of 49-46, 49-46, and 48-47. Volkanovski had previously defended his belt four times before his loss to Israel Makhachev in 2023.
Who`s Next for Pimblett?
Pimblett has his sights set on a fight with former champion Charles Oliveira, viewing it as a crucial step towards a world title opportunity.
“I hope so. I want to be a world champion. I`ve always said I`m going to be a world champion, and beating a former champion like Charles Oliveira, who had two title defenses and is considered the best submission artist the UFC has ever seen, would be amazing. I`d love to go up against that. Because I think I`ve got better submissions than Charles Oliveira.”
— Paddy Pimblett
