In the wake of his impressive TKO victory over Michael Chandler at UFC 314, lightweight contender Paddy Pimblett has once again made headlines for his post-fight weight gain. The Liverpool native revealed he’s already put on a staggering 42 pounds in the week following his Miami showdown.
“On Sunday I had about 5 milkshakes after the fight, literally,” Pimblett admitted candidly. “This morning I woke up like 198, which is fat.” The lightweight fighter, who weighed in at 156 pounds for his bout, has become notorious for his dramatic weight fluctuations between fights.
Pimblett’s eating habits in the United States seem particularly enthusiastic. “In the states, I’m massive,” he explained. “Whatever’s getting offered, you take it.” His penchant for indulgence includes unlimited soda refills, which he finds remarkable compared to service back home.
The undefeated UFC fighter’s approach to his profession is refreshingly honest: “I love fighting. The one thing I don’t think any of us like doing is making weight. But that’s what we have to do.”
His weight management has become a polarizing topic among MMA fans. Some find his rapid weight gains concerning for his long-term health, with comments pointing to potential issues like increased blood pressure and strain on his cardiovascular system. Others defend him, noting many fighters put on significant weight immediately after weigh-ins.
Despite these concerns, Pimblett’s stock in the lightweight division continues to rise. American Kickboxing Academy head coach Javier Mendez, who trains champion Islam Makhachev, recently suggested Pimblett deserves a title shot following his victory over Chandler.
“Paddy is ready to face anybody,” Mendez stated. “What he’s done already, his credentials, his winning record in the UFC, his hype, and what he can do, how he can motivate people. If they give him the next title shot, he deserves it.”
Whether Pimblett’s eating habits will eventually catch up with him remains to be seen, but for now, “The Baddy” continues to win fights while approaching weight management in his unique way.
