“Put Some Respect on My Name!” – Paddy Pimblett silences critics after UFC 314 triumph

Paddy Pimblett, also known as 'The Baddy,' silenced his critics and silenced them by stopping veteran Michael Chandler in a dominant third-round TKO at UFC 314 in Miami, Florida. Referee Kerry Hatley put an end to the bout at 3:07 of the third round, Liverpool native showing his better striking and grappling skills during the bout. However, Paddy Pimblett responded to those who had doubted his ability to beat more highly ranked opponents after his breakout performance on April 12.
The Liverpudlian dictated at the earliest possible stage, using clean leg kicks and yes, straight punches to keep distance from the explosive Michael Chandler. However, Pimblett recovered well in the second round as he threatened with many submission attempts, including a kimura and rear-naked choke, which had the Miami crowd on its feet.
"After everyone saying Mike's power would be too much for me on the feet, I think you're all realized it was the other way around real quick," Paddy Pimblett posted on Instagram two weeks after the fight, referencing critics who predicted Chandler's striking would overwhelm him. It was accompanied by pictures of Michael Chandler bloodied up against Pimblett's relatively unmarked visage.

Paddy Pimblett began the decisive sequence in the third round with a devastating jumping knee that opened up a big cut beneath Michael Chandler's left eye. He then took him down, secured a mount, and dropped a flurry of punches and elbows that made the stoppage.
With the victory, Paddy Pimblett extended his perfect UFC record to 7-0 and secured his position in the lightweight division's top 10 rankings. The win represents the biggest moment in Pimblett's career and positions him for a potential title eliminator against a higher-ranked opponent.
During his post-fight interview with Joe Rogan, Paddy Pimblett expressed his desire to face any of the division’s top contenders, declaring that he has his sights set on the world title. Dismissing past criticism, Paddy Pimblett challenged doubters who once said he would never crack the rankings or break into the top 10. He specifically called out Charles Oliveira as his preferred next opponent, questioning the Brazilian's status as the UFC’s premier submission artist and asserting his place among the division’s elite.
Fans can expect Paddy Pimblett's next appearance to be announced in the coming months, likely against a top-5 ranked opponent. UFC 318 is scheduled for September in Manchester, England, which could provide a perfect homecoming opportunity for the British star.
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UFC President Dana White suggested after the show that Paddy Pimblett has now become 'impossible to ignore' when it comes to talking about a lightweight title, as his march to world-class continues.