Paddy Pimblett has gained a significant supporter in his ambition to become a champion.
In a recent YouTube video, Demetrious Johnson, widely regarded as the greatest flyweight fighter of all time, expressed strong admiration for Pimblett. Johnson analyzed some of Pimblett`s previous victories. “The Baddy” is scheduled to compete against Michael Chandler this Saturday as part of the co-main event at UFC 314 in Miami`s Kaseya Center.
Johnson even suggested that Pimblett`s potential could reach the highest levels of the UFC lightweight division.
“I believe he will become a champion eventually,” Johnson stated. “If he doesn`t, he`ll be remembered as one of those exceptionally talented fighters who just missed out on the championship, like Urijah Faber or Joseph Benavidez. Currently, in his career, especially leading up to this fight and in his bout against King Green, he`s doing everything correctly.”
Johnson selected Pimblett’s 2018 submission victory over Alexis Savvidis with a triangle choke and his 2024 triangle choke submission of King Green at UFC 304 as examples for his analysis. These fights highlighted Pimblett’s impressive grappling skills.
Johnson acknowledged Pimblett’s toughness – noting his undefeated record against knockouts in 25 professional fights – but also emphasized his technical skills, which have proven difficult for opponents to counter.
“Many people don’t understand Paddy’s journey to this point,” Johnson commented. “Paddy has faced criticism regarding his fighting style because he absorbs a lot of strikes. However, one of Paddy`s admirable qualities is his unwavering commitment in every fight. Whether he’s in a difficult situation or in a dominant position, he consistently gives his all. He demonstrates a diverse range of attacks and fights very effectively.”
Pimblett aims to extend his UFC record to 7-0 with a victory over Chandler this Saturday. He is currently on a winning streak, having defeated experienced fighters like Green and Tony Ferguson. Johnson appreciates that Pimblett’s approach to fighting has remained consistent even as he faces tougher opponents.
“He fought with the same style back in 2018,” Johnson noted. “His fight against [Green] was in 2024. People need to understand that Paddy Pimblett has always fought this way. The public often focuses on his outspoken personality, his weight fluctuations, and other aspects, but he is skilled at creating scrambles, gaining advantageous positions, and securing submissions.”
“If he’s fighting Michael Chandler, and Chandler lands a couple of strikes, pushes him against the cage, and takes him down, Pimblett will be actively seeking opportunities for jiu-jitsu, attempting to secure a submission.”
I’ve always believed Paddy Pimblett is a more skilled fighter than he is often given credit for, so it’s encouraging to see someone as knowledgeable as Demetrious Johnson share this view. Reaching the pinnacle of the lightweight division is incredibly challenging, and most would not currently favor Pimblett against Islam Makhachev.
However, if Pimblett is victorious on Saturday, it becomes increasingly likely that he will at least contend for the title in the foreseeable future, which is a significant accomplishment in itself.
