Paddy “The Baddy” Pimblett has become one of the most electrifying figures in mixed martial arts (MMA), captivating fans with his brash personality, unrelenting confidence, and impressive performances inside the UFC Octagon. As of May 2025, the Liverpool-born lightweight is riding a wave of momentum following his career-defining victory over Michael Chandler at UFC 314.
With a 7-0 record in the UFC and a newly minted spot in the lightweight division’s top 10, the question on every MMA fan’s mind is Who will Paddy Pimblett fight next? This article delves into the latest information surrounding Pimblett’s next fight, exploring potential opponents, his roadmap to a title shot, and answers to the most pressing questions fans are asking online.
Paddy Pimblett’s Rise to Stardom
Paddy Pimblett’s journey to UFC stardom began in Huyton, Merseyside, where he started training in MMA at the age of 15. Inspired by a UFC 103 fight between Rich Franklin and Vitor Belfort, Pimblett joined Next Generation MMA and quickly made a name for himself in the regional scene. By 2012, at just 17 years old, he turned professional, racking up a 3-0 record before signing with Cage Warriors, one of Europe’s premier MMA promotions.
In Cage Warriors, Pimblett claimed the featherweight championship in 2016, defeating Johnny Frachey at Liverpool’s Echo Arena. He defended the title once in a controversial unanimous decision against Julian Erosa before losing it to Nad Narimani in 2017. After moving up to lightweight and challenging for the Cage Warriors lightweight title (losing to Søren Bak), Pimblett amassed enough wins to catch the UFC’s attention. Despite declining two earlier UFC offers for better financial deals with Cage Warriors, he finally signed with the promotion in 2021.
Pimblett’s UFC debut against Luigi Vendramini at UFC Fight Night 191 was a statement, as he secured a first-round knockout and earned a Performance of the Night bonus. Since then, he has maintained an undefeated 7-0 record in the UFC, with notable wins over Jordan Leavitt, Tony Ferguson, King Green, and most recently, Michael Chandler. His charisma, combined with his grappling prowess and improving striking, has made him a fan favorite and a marketable star.
The Michael Chandler Victory: A Turning Point
Pimblett’s most significant win to date came at UFC 314 on April 12, 2025, when he faced former Bellator lightweight champion and UFC title challenger Michael Chandler in a five-round co-main event. Many doubted Pimblett’s ability to handle the explosive and experienced Chandler, with critics arguing that his previous opponents were not of the same caliber. However, Pimblett silenced the doubters with a dominant performance, finishing Chandler via technical knockout in the third round with a jumping knee and ground strikes.
The victory earned Pimblett his fifth Performance of the Night bonus and a career-high payday, reportedly exceeding $250,000, including bonuses. UFC president Dana White praised Pimblett as “the real deal,” while commentator Jon Anik welcomed him “to the elite.” The win propelled Pimblett into the No. 8 spot in the UFC lightweight rankings, marking his first appearance in the division’s top 10. This triumph has set the stage for a high-stakes next fight, with Pimblett eyeing a matchup that could position him just one step away from a title shot in 2026.
Who Will Paddy Pimblett Fight Next?
As of May 16, 2025, the UFC has not officially announced Pimblett’s next opponent or fight date. However, speculation is rife, fueled by Pimblett’s post-fight comments, recent interviews, and discussions on platforms like X and MMA forums. In his UFC 314 post-fight interview with Joe Rogan, Pimblett called out several top lightweight contenders, including Charles Oliveira, Dustin Poirier, Justin Gaethje, Arman Tsarukyan, and Ilia Topuria. These names represent the cream of the lightweight crop, and a fight against any of them would be a massive step toward a title shot.
Charles Oliveira: The Submission Showdown
Why It Makes Sense: Charles Oliveira, the former UFC lightweight champion and No. 2-ranked contender, is the fight Pimblett has expressed the most interest in. Known as the UFC’s all-time leader in submission victories (16), Oliveira is a grappling wizard with a versatile striking game. Pimblett, who has secured three of his seven UFC wins via submission, believes he can outshine Oliveira on the ground, proving himself as the superior submission artist. In a recent interview, Pimblett said, “I want to be a world champion, and beat a former champion in Oliveira… I think I’ve got better submissions than him.”
Fan Appeal: This fight would be a grappler’s dream, pitting two of the division’s most dangerous submission specialists against each other. Oliveira’s high-octane style and Pimblett’s relentless pressure would likely produce a finish, making it a fan-friendly matchup. Additionally, Oliveira’s status as a former champion would elevate Pimblett’s resume significantly if he were to win.
Challenges: Oliveira’s experience and well-rounded skill set pose a significant threat. His ability to chain submissions and land devastating strikes could test Pimblett’s durability and cardio, especially in a five-round fight. However, Oliveira’s recent losses to top contenders like Arman Tsarukyan and Islam Makhachev might make him more available for this matchup.
Likelihood: High. Pimblett’s callout and Oliveira’s lack of a confirmed opponent make this a realistic possibility for late 2025.
Justin Gaethje: The Fan-Friendly Slugfest
Why It Makes Sense: Justin Gaethje, the No. 4-ranked lightweight and former interim champion, is another “legend” Pimblett mentioned post-UFC 314. Known for his all-action style and devastating striking, Gaethje has never been in a boring fight. A recent X post suggested a Gaethje vs. Pimblett fight could set up the winner for a title shot against Ilia Topuria in December 2025. Pimblett’s improving stand-up game and willingness to engage in firefights make this an intriguing stylistic matchup.
Fan Appeal: Gaethje vs. Pimblett would be a guaranteed barnburner, with both fighters known for their aggressive, fan-friendly styles. Gaethje’s power and Pimblett’s durability would create a high-stakes striking battle, while Pimblett’s grappling could add an extra layer of intrigue. A win over Gaethje would cement Pimblett’s status as a top contender.
Challenges: Gaethje’s elite striking and wrestling defense could overwhelm Pimblett if the fight stays on the feet. At 36, Gaethje is still a dangerous opponent, but his recent knockout losses to Max Holloway and Charles Oliveira might make him a slightly more winnable opponent for Pimblett.
Likelihood: Moderate. Gaethje’s star power and Pimblett’s marketability make this a promotable fight, but Gaethje’s recovery from recent losses and potential interest in a Poirier trilogy could delay this matchup.
Arman Tsarukyan: The Grudge Match
Why It Makes Sense: Arman Tsarukyan, the No. 1-ranked lightweight, was mentioned by Pimblett as a potential opponent after UFC 314. Tsarukyan was set to challenge champion Islam Makhachev in January 2025 but withdrew due to injury, leaving his next fight uncertain. Recent X posts indicate fan interest in a Tsarukyan vs. Pimblett fight, with some suggesting it could determine the next title challenger. Tsarukyan has expressed openness to fighting Pimblett in the summer or October 2025, adding fuel to the speculation.
Fan Appeal: This fight has added intrigue due to the stylistic clash and potential for bad blood. Tsarukyan’s wrestling-heavy style would test Pimblett’s takedown defense and grappling, while Pimblett’s submission game could threaten Tsarukyan on the mat. The winner would likely earn a title shot, making this a high-stakes eliminator.
Challenges: Tsarukyan’s relentless pace and grappling prowess make him one of the toughest tests in the division. Pimblett would need to rely heavily on his submission skills and improved striking to counter Tsarukyan’s pressure. Additionally, Tsarukyan’s status as the top contender might make the UFC hesitant to book this fight unless Pimblett is deemed ready for a title eliminator.
Likelihood: Moderate to high. Tsarukyan’s injury recovery timeline and Pimblett’s desire for a top-five opponent align well for a late 2025 showdown.
Ilia Topuria: The Bad Blood Boilover
Why It Makes Sense: Ilia Topuria, the former featherweight champion who recently moved to lightweight, has a history of animosity with Pimblett, stemming from a backstage altercation at UFC London in 2022. After his win over Chandler, Pimblett dismissed Topuria’s relevance but expressed interest in “welcoming him to 155 pounds.” Topuria’s decision to vacate his featherweight belt and pursue lightweight gold makes this a compelling matchup, especially if Topuria wins his next fight.
Fan Appeal: The personal rivalry between Pimblett and Topuria would generate significant hype, with both fighters known for their trash-talking and confident personas. Topuria’s knockout power and Pimblett’s grappling would create an intriguing stylistic clash, and the bad blood would add an extra layer of drama.
Challenges: Topuria’s elite striking and wrestling could pose problems for Pimblett, especially if Topuria adapts well to the lightweight division. However, Topuria’s reported interest in waiting for a title shot might delay this fight unless the UFC sees it as a marketable stepping stone.
Likelihood: Low to moderate. The personal history makes this fight appealing, but Topuria’s title aspirations and Pimblett’s focus on other top-five contenders might push this matchup to 2026.
Dustin Poirier: The Legend’s Last Dance
Why It Makes Sense: Dustin Poirier, the No. 3-ranked lightweight and perennial fan favorite, was named by Pimblett as one of the “legends” he wants to face. With speculation that Poirier’s next fight could be his retirement bout, a matchup with Pimblett would be a significant moment for both fighters. However, Poirier has shown little interest in fighting Pimblett, which could complicate negotiations.
Fan Appeal: Poirier’s status as one of the greatest lightweights ever would make this a marquee fight for Pimblett. The contrast between Poirier’s polished striking and Pimblett’s unorthodox style would create an exciting matchup, and a win would skyrocket Pimblett’s stock.
Challenges: Poirier’s experience, power, and boxing skills would be a major test for Pimblett, who has yet to face a striker of Poirier’s caliber. Poirier’s reluctance to take this fight and his potential focus on a trilogy with Justin Gaethje could make it less likely.
Likelihood: Low. While the fight would be a blockbuster, Poirier’s career trajectory and lack of interest in Pimblett make it a long shot for 2025.
FAQs
Who is Paddy Pimblett’s next opponent?
Paddy Pimblett’s next opponent has been confirmed as [insert opponent’s name if announced]. If no official opponent is announced yet, rumors suggest potential matchups with fighters ranked in the lightweight division or featherweight division, reflecting his weight class and recent performances.
Where will Paddy Pimblett’s next fight take place?
The venue for Paddy Pimblett’s next fight is expected to be at a major UFC event, possibly in the UK or the United States, depending on the UFC’s global schedule. Recent fights of his have taken place in venues like the O2 Arena in London, so a UK venue is a strong possibility.
How can I watch Paddy Pimblett’s next fight?
Paddy Pimblett’s fights are typically broadcast on UFC Fight Pass, ESPN+ (in the US), BT Sport (in the UK), or pay-per-view events depending on the card. Check local broadcasters or streaming platforms closer to the fight date.
Has Paddy Pimblett talked about his next fight?
Paddy Pimblett is very vocal on social media and in interviews. He often shares his thoughts on upcoming fights, training progress, and trash-talks opponents to hype his bouts. Follow his official Instagram and Twitter for the latest updates.
What are the betting odds for Paddy Pimblett’s next fight?
Betting odds fluctuate as the fight date approaches and depending on the opponent. Currently, Pimblett is generally seen as a favorite in many of his matchups due to his aggressive style and fan support, but always checks with reputable sportsbooks for the latest odds.
In Summary
Paddy Pimblett’s next fight is poised to be a defining moment in his career, as he transitions from a fan-favorite prospect to a legitimate lightweight contender. With a potential matchup against Charles Oliveira, Justin Gaethje, Arman Tsarukyan, or Ilia Topuria on the horizon, “The Baddy” is closer than ever to his dream of UFC gold. His charisma, skill, and unrelenting ambition make him one of the most compelling figures in MMA today, and fans are eagerly awaiting news of his next Octagon appearance.
As Pimblett continues to defy expectations and silence critics, the lightweight division braces for the impact of a scouser with a chip on his shoulder and a title in his sights. Whether he’s trading barbs with Topuria, locking horns with Oliveira, or slugging it out with Gaethje, one thing is certain Paddy Pimblett’s next fight will be must-see TV.
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