Paddy Pimblett expects a good referee against ‘dirty bastard’ Michael Chandler at UFC 314

Rising lightweight prospect Paddy Pimblett calls for an efficient referee ahead of his upcoming bout against Michael Chandler at UFC 314.

Paddy Pimblett expects a good referee against ‘dirty bastard’ Michael Chandler at UFC 314

Paddy Pimblett talks about Michael Chandler's cheating habits (via Imago)

Paddy Pimblett and Michael Chandler are set to collide in the co-main event of UFC 314 this Saturday. Both fighters have built significant hype around their rivalry, making this fight highly anticipated by fans worldwide. Pimblett is determined to win, aiming for a potential title shot in the near future, with no tolerance for cheating or bad refereeing.

Chandler has faced allegations of cheating during fights, with some accusing him of using illegal tactics to gain an advantage. Critics claim his actions undermine the integrity of the sport, as he has been involved in several controversial moments during his career. Given his habits, Pimblett has declared that he wants an efficient referee who would make strict calls. 

He’s the nicest man in the world outside the cage, and when he gets in there he’s a dirty b****rd, isn’t he? That one against Charles, when he punched him in the back of the head about nine times or something and ref, I hope that’s not my referee. Just put it that way. I hope I get a good ref like Goddard or Herzog. I don’t want to have a ref that’s just going to let me get rabbit punched in the back of the head consistently

Paddy Pimblett via UFC 314 Media day 
YouTube video

Pimblett referred to the UFC 309 incident where Chandler landed illegal back-of-the-head shots on Charles Oliveira. Despite the commentators pointing out the foul during the fight, referee Keith Peterson chose not to intervene or penalize Chandler. Pimblett believes Chandler’s actions were driven by his intense desire to win, using every available tactic to gain an advantage.

I always say if you’re not cheating, you’re not trying, so I understand what he’s trying to do. He wants to win. That’s the main thing when it comes to this game, but yeah, I probably will mention the referee in the back.

Paddy Pimblett continued.

Chandler has addressed the cheating allegations, stating that individuals who don’t know him personally shouldn’t make comments or assumptions. He explained his reasons for landing strikes on Oliveira’s back of the head, justifying his actions in the heat of battle. Chandler also spoke about his past fight with. This ongoing drama has certainly heightened the anticipation for Chandler’s next fight.

Michael Chandler’s biggest rivalry in UFC

Since his UFC debut, Michael Chandler has developed several rivalries, and one of them is against former title contender Dustin Poirier. Their competitive clash escalated in 2021, marked by a thrilling fight where both fighters showed intense skill and determination. The heated contest ended with Poirier securing a victory via submission, which only intensified the rivalry.

Michael Chandler on Dustin Poirier’s accusations
Michael Chandler on Dustin Poirier’s accusations (via X)

Accusations of cheating arose from Chandler grabbing the mouthpiece of Poirier during the fight, fueling animosity between them. DP then went on interviews calling ‘Iron Mike’ of being a fake personality. In a recent podcast, Chandler responded back with a befitting reply.

There’s two different ways that you can respond, as the winner and the loser. There are guys that are sore losers, right?… What’s worse, a sore loser or a sore winner? Poirier is a sore winner… He wins, and then he’s like, ‘I’m not done. I gotta come over, and I gotta talk more trash to you.’ … Let your win do the talking. Let your performance do the talking. You don’t need to keep on chirping and talking.

Michael Chandler via Spinning Backfist 

Chandler’s UFC career had a positive start with a thrilling debut win against Dan Hooker, quickly earning title contention. Despite his exciting fighting style and resilience, Chandler struggled to secure the championship. Frequent Losses to DP and Justin Gaethje hindered his title pursuit, leading to frustration and questions about his future.

Related: Michael Chandler Wife: Who is Iron Mike’s better half?