Paddy Pimblett achieved a significant victory in his pursuit of the UFC title by defeating Michael Chandler in Miami.
The fighter from Liverpool controlled the fight against Chandler, maintaining a high tempo and landing powerful strikes.
Pimblett ultimately secured a finish against Chandler in the third round at 3:07, preserving his undefeated record in the UFC.
Pimblett was more effective from the start, utilizing his striking skills while Chandler attempted to grapple.
He continued to dominate, landing a knee in the third round that ultimately led to Chandler`s defeat.
“I proved my point. Everyone said they didn`t think I could stand with him. He was the one shooting for takedowns because I was outstriking him,” Pimblett stated after the fight.
“I`m the new generation. He`s the old generation. I`m the newcomer. I`m aiming for the top five fighters now. I`m coming for that belt. You can laugh all you want. People have doubted me my entire career, thinking I wouldn`t achieve anything, but I consistently prove them wrong.”
“Everyone underestimates me before each fight. I don`t get the respect I deserve. It`s quite irritating.”
Pimblett believes one more victory will position him for a shot at the UFC lightweight title.
“I want that world title,” he declared. “Some say I`ll never be champion, never reach the top 10. But what do they say now?”
Chandler will soon be 39, and this defeat by Pimblett could be a sign that he is approaching retirement.
In the main event of UFC 314, Alexander Volkanovski regained the featherweight title, defeating Diego Lopes by unanimous decision.
Two judges scored the fight 49-46, and the third scored it 48-47.
Volkanovski had previously defended his title four times before losing to Israel Makhachev in 2023.
Pimblett`s Next Opponent?
Pimblett is interested in fighting Charles Oliveira as a stepping stone to a world title opportunity.
“I hope so. I want to become a world champion,” Pimblett stated.
“I`ve always maintained that I will be a world champion, and defeating a former champion like Charles Oliveira, who has two title defenses and is considered the best submission artist in UFC history, would be amazing. I`d love to compete against him because I believe my submissions are even better than Charles Oliveira`s.”
Marcus Bellamy