Did Conor McGregor Have Beef with Paddy Pimblett? Dan Hooker Exposes Hidden Confrontation Story

Lightweight contender Dan Hooker reveals a story about how Conor McGregor showed up to Paddy Pimblett's house after online rivalry.


Did Conor McGregor Have Beef with Paddy Pimblett? Dan Hooker Exposes Hidden Confrontation Story

Dan Hooker reveals Conor McGregor's beef with Paddy Pimblett (via The Sun, BBC)

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Conor McGregor undoubtedly remains a central figure in UFC discussions despite last competing inside the Octagon in 2021. His historic run as a former two-division champion and global superstar keeps him relevant across MMA narratives. That presence resurfaced amid the feud between Dan Hooker and Paddy Pimblett. According to Hooker, the Irishman had shown up at Pimblett’s house for a confrontation.

Pimblett most recently competed at UFC 324, where he lost an interim lightweight title fight to Justin Gaethje. In the buildup, attention centered on the notable age gap between Gaethje and the younger Pimblett. When addressing those concerns publicly, the Liverpudlian deflected by taking a dig at Hooker. That response escalated into controversy after Pimblett made a vile remark involving Hooker’s mother.

Hooker is known for not holding back during public disputes and responded forcefully to Pimblett. His reply escalated the feud when he referenced Pimblett’s close friend, who had died by suicide. The exchange intensified scrutiny around both fighters’ conduct. More recently, ‘Hangman’ suggested Pimblett failed to back up his trash talk while linking the Liverpudlian to a story involving McGregor.

He talked s**t about Conor McGregor and Conor drove to his house. He sat outside calling the bloke, and Paddy refused to come outside.

Dan Hooker via UFC 325 Media Day

The rivalry between the two largely stems from the New Zealand native questioning Pimblett’s rapid rise in the lightweight rankings. Hooker has openly challenged whether Pimblett’s momentum aligned with the level of competition he faced. That skepticism gained traction as Pimblett was awarded an interim title opportunity. Many believe those doubts fueled ongoing tension between the two lightweights.

During Pimblett’s rise in the lightweight division, there was significant discussion about a potential fight between him and McGregor. While that matchup never materialized, the two fighters have remained on cordial terms publicly. Their relationship has been visible through interactions over the years. The ‘Notorious One’ has also hosted Pimblett and Molly McCann at his Black Forge Inn pub in Dublin.

Hooker is now set to compete against Benoit Saint-Denis at UFC 325, a bout that could significantly impact his standing in the lightweight division. A win may position him for a potential matchup with Paddy Pimblett in the near future to settle their grudges. Conor McGregor, meanwhile, remains on a separate path as he prepares for a possible return, which has been linked to the UFC White House event.

Popular MMA Insider predicts Conor McGregor vs Paddy Pimblett at the UFC White House event

Conor McGregor has been vocal about a potential return at the UFC White House event scheduled for June 14, 2026. The former two-division champion has repeatedly linked his comeback plans to that historic card. McGregor has also revealed that he has begun a training camp in preparation for the date. Those steps signal a serious intent to return to competition in June.

Conor McGregor Paddy Pimblett
Conor McGregor Paddy Pimblett (via BBC)

There were early doubts about a potential matchup between McGregor and Michael Chandler. However, UFC CEO Dana White reportedly does not seem interested in booking that fight at this time. Popular MMA insider Ariel Helwani recently revealed that Paddy Pimblett could serve as a backup option. Plan B would activate if the Chandler fight fails to materialize for the Irishman’s June return.

I remind you, when that White House card comes around Jun. 14, there will be no pay-per-view, there will be no gate. And from what I’m hearing, there’s gonna be no sponsors as well. I’m not saying will not come back. But, [UFC] got a pay-per-view in July. Maybe they save him (McGregor) for that and sell tickets and gate, and all that stuff. If he is involved, I could see a scenario where it’s him versus Paddy, if it’s not Chandler, I think it should be Chandler No. 1. If it’s not, Paddy is probably No. 2 at this point.

Ariel Helwani via The Ariel Helwani Show

Pimblett has previously discussed possessing the skills and tools necessary to challenge McGregor in the Octagon. His confidence reflects his rapid rise and experience in the lightweight division. McGregor, on the other hand, remains a seasoned veteran with years of championship-level competition. Any potential matchup would therefore pit a rising contender against one of MMA’s most accomplished fighters.

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