UFC lightweight sensation Paddy ‘The Baddy’ Pimblett is set to become a free agent after his upcoming bout at UFC 304. The outspoken Brit has been making waves in the promotion, and it appears he has his sights set on a lucrative venture outside the octagon – influencer boxing.
Pimblett, who is known for his entertaining personality and impressive in-ring performances, has expressed interest in a potential showdown with YouTube star-turned-boxer Jake Paul. According to a recent interview, Pimblett is open to the idea of facing Paul, provided the price is right.
“If Jake Paul sends a contract over for a couple of million dollars, lad, and wants to fight me, let’s do it,” Pimblett told Mike Bohn on July 17. “We’re prize fighters at the end of the day. That’s what people forget. We’re prize fighters, we do this to get paid. It’s all about money.”
The UFC star praised Paul for his recent decision to take on former UFC star Mike Perry in the boxing ring, stating that the YouTuber has “gained a little bit of respect” from him for taking on a more formidable opponent.
“Mike Perry is a boxer, he’s a striker, he’s got hands. So I’ll be honest, Jake Paul has gained a little bit of respect from me for that,” Pimblett said. “I didn’t think he’d fighting someone as good as Mike Perry, so it would be good to see how he does. It will be interesting to see how he does.”
But Pimblett wasn’t too pleased about this quote getting reported and went to TMZ to clarify:
“I want to be in the UFC, the pinnacle of the sport. No other MMA promotion comes near it.”
If Pimblett can secure a lucrative deal with Paul or another influencer-turned-boxer, it could potentially mean the end of his time in the UFC. The Brit’s current contract is set to expire after his fight at UFC 304, making him a free agent.
Pimblett’s reputation might’ve taken a hit when he tried to get paid for an interview, not to mention the Jared Gordon situation cop out however it’s always good to see talent betting on themselves and not accepting lowball offers
