Paddy Pimblett, the charismatic UFC lightweight contender from Liverpool, has candidly discussed how observing the defeats of his rivals has fuelled his own redemption narrative following a challenging start to 2026. After suffering a high-profile loss to Justin Gaethje at UFC 324, Pimblett has bounced back, most notably with a dominant performance against long-term rival Ilia Topuria at UFC Freedom 250, held at the White House.
Pimblett's initial defeat to Gaethje, a five-round war, saw him endure significant criticism despite the American’s veteran status. Many had expected Pimblett to secure the interim lightweight title, making the loss a bitter pill. However, a turning point came when Gaethje, the man who had bested Pimblett, went on to decisively defeat Ilia Topuria, stripping the Georgian-Spaniard of his undefeated record and lightweight title. This outcome, which saw Topuria hospitalised with facial injuries, provided Pimblett with what he terms a successful 'hate watch', a sentiment he also expressed after Arsenal's Champions League final defeat.
The 31-year-old fighter, often known as 'Paddy The Baddy', revealed that he had anticipated Gaethje's victory over Topuria, despite widespread scepticism. He views Gaethje's subsequent triumph as a vindication of his own earlier performance, arguing that losing to a fighter of Gaethje's calibre, especially one who then goes on to dismantle an undefeated champion, is no source of shame. Pimblett also suggested that an illegal eye gouge contributed to his loss in the second round against Gaethje.
Pimblett has been vocal in his criticism of Topuria's performance, particularly the decision by Topuria's corner to throw in the towel during the fourth round. He adamantly stated that he would never 'quit on the stool' and would fight 'with every last breath' to win, drawing a stark contrast with Topuria's actions. This fierce determination underscores his ambition to reclaim his standing in the lightweight division.
Looking ahead, Pimblett is preparing for his co-main event bout at UFC 329 against Benot Saint-Denis. He has confidently vowed to finish Saint-Denis, a victory he believes will pave the way for a highly anticipated rematch against Justin Gaethje, a fight he has emphatically called for as a just reward for his recent successes and renewed momentum.