UFC’s $10.2 million event’s debacle might’ve delayed UFC star Paddy Pimblett’s road to title shot
Michael Chandler shares how his decision to fight Paddy Pimblett changed after watching Arman Tsarukyan pull out of UFC 311.
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Michael Chandler wanted to fight Paddy Pimblett but after UFC 311 his opinions have changed (via Imago/X)
Paddy Pimblett is undoubtedly one of the most popular fighters in the UFC lightweight division. The British fighter has yet to step inside the top ten ranking, but has already amassed a huge fan following. Going forward, Pimblett wanted to fight Michael Chandler to get close to the title shot. However, that might not be possible now.
A few weeks ago, Pimblett hinted at a possible match-up with Chandler, which could have propelled him higher in the ranks. While there was no official announcement, many thought that the former Bellator champion was also interested. However, in a recent interview, Chandler shared how UFC 311 changed his opinion.
If you would’ve asked me before the Arman versus Islam debacle, I’d have said Paddy was a higher likelihood. But now, why wouldn’t I fight Arman next…But Paddy is definitely a possibility. It’s a big fight, a fun fight, and one I like stylistically.
Michael Chandler via Tim Welch’s YouTube channel
UFC 311 was a huge success and the gate was around $10.2 million. However, the main event had to go through a last-minute change. Arman Tsarukyan injured his back, and Renato Moicano got a title opportunity, but, he failed to capitalize on it. After the fight, UFC CEO Dana White confirmed that the Armenian star will have to earn his title contention again.
Tsarukyan didn’t protest and was quick to call out former champion Charles Oliveira for a five-round title eliminator. However, it seems like the Brazilian superstar has some other things in mind that have potentially opened up opportunities for Michael Chandler. As for Paddy Pimblett, nothing is sure. Nevertheless, one can expect the UFC to take good care of the fighter.
Does Paddy Pimblett have the ‘Dana White privilege’?
Paddy Pimblett is often linked to ‘Dana White privilege’ due to the UFC’s significant promotional push behind him. His attitude and fan-friendly personality have positioned him as a marketable star, drawing major attention to his fights. Critics argue that the UFC carefully matched him with favorable opponents to build his reputation without risking setbacks.
This perception intensified after his controversial decision win over Jared Gordon, which many believed he lost. Regardless, his popularity keeps him a key UFC investment and Renato Moicano believes it’s unfair. In a recent interview, the Brazilian fighter talked about it in detail.
UFC always favors him for a reason. He has a million followers. That’s a spoiled brat motherf***”. They give him everything that he needs….He has like the silver spoon.
Renato Moicano via The Ariel Helwani Show
After his UFC 311 loss, Moicano was mocked by Pimblett. However, ‘Money Moicano’ didn’t take it seriously. The Brazilian is ready to trade punches with the Scouser if the UFC allows him to. This fight has a huge potential and can be made the next time UFC visits the UK.
Related: Paddy Pimblett’s wife: Who is Laura Gregory and how did she meet the UFC star?
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Ameetosh Dash
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