Paddy Pimblett delivered a strong message at UFC 314, defeating Michael Chandler in the co-main event. Pimblett dominated Chandler, achieving a third-round stoppage to mark the most significant win of his career.
Despite a couple of takedowns from Chandler early on, the fight was largely controlled by Pimblett. He impressed with his striking and took complete control once the fight went to the ground. After reversing Chandler`s position, Pimblett moved to top control and unleashed a series of heavy punches and elbows on the former title challenger.
Pimblett then transitioned to mount, continuing his assault with strikes. Chandler could only defend as the referee intervened, stopping the fight at the third round. Following the stoppage, a visibly bloodied Chandler left the cage, while Pimblett celebrated his undefeated UFC record and a major step forward in the lightweight division.
“That’s how we secure victories,” Pimblett stated after the fight. “We strategize, utilize our fight intelligence, and overcome our opponents. Any more questions?”
Already a prominent figure in the UFC, Pimblett is now aiming for fights that will lead him to a title opportunity. He has his sights set on competing against top contenders in the lightweight division.
“I want anyone in the top five. I am aiming for the world title,” Pimblett declared. “I want to face Dustin Poirier, Justin Gaethje, Charles Oliveira, or Arman Tsarukyan. I respect Dustin, Justin, and Charles—Charles is a true legend and is considered the best submission expert in UFC history, a claim I challenge. I am here. So, Charles versus me, forget Arman.”
Pimblett was in control for most of the fight, although early leg kicks from Pimblett allowed Chandler to secure a takedown and control Pimblett against the cage. However, Chandler failed to generate significant offense from this position.
Chandler landed some powerful punches when they returned to their feet after Pimblett held a kimura attempt for too long.
From there, Pimblett demonstrated effective striking at range, using single or double punches as Chandler moved away. Pimblett then launched a jumping attack that excited the crowd, with Chandler responding with a smile just before the first round concluded.
In the second round, Pimblett took the center of the octagon and continued to pressure Chandler, landing more leg kicks and sharp straight punches to the chin. This led to another Chandler takedown, but Pimblett quickly reversed the position, ending up on top.
Pimblett immediately transitioned to side control and then to mount, striking Chandler with punches and elbows. Moments later, Pimblett secured a body triangle from back control and kept striking until the round ended.
At the start of the third round, Pimblett landed a jumping knee that connected with Chandler’s face, causing a cut. Pimblett followed up with a takedown and took Chandler’s back against the cage, landing strikes to potentially set up a submission.
Pimblett maintained his attack, eventually gaining mount and unleashing a series of punches and elbows, forcing Chandler to turn away. This prompted the referee to stop the fight to protect Chandler from further damage.
This victory could likely secure Pimblett a fight against the high-profile opponents he mentioned, increasing his chances of becoming a future title contender in the UFC. For Chandler, this marks his third consecutive loss in the UFC, making his next steps uncertain.
