Former UFC bantamweight champion Cody Garbrandt has developed a newfound admiration for rising UFC star Paddy Pimblett, highlighting the Liverpool star’s uncanny ability to absorb punishment and still emerge victorious.
Speaking on the “Rollin with the Boys” podcast, Garbrandt expressed his appreciation for the entertaining style that has made “Paddy the Baddy” a fan favorite in the UFC.
“I like this dude,” Garbrandt said of Pimblett. “I mean, I thought his fight was entertaining. You know, he was almost hurt.”
What caught Garbrandt’s attention most was Pimblett’s own supernatural explanation for his durability in the octagon. “He says he’s a sorcerer. They don’t get knocked out,” Garbrandt noted with apparent amusement, before adding that Pimblett “ended up finishing his opponent.”
The comment references Pimblett’s playful self-characterization as possessing magical abilities that allow him to withstand strikes that would floor other competitors. This “sorcerer” persona aligns with Pimblett’s overall charismatic and larger-than-life character that has rapidly gained him popularity since joining the UFC.
Pimblett has become known for his ability to weather early storms in his fights before turning the tables on his opponents. His resilience, combined with his flamboyant personality and distinctive hairstyle, has made him one of the most recognizable new faces in the promotion.
Garbrandt, who knows a thing or two about exciting performances himself, seems to have joined the growing list of fighters and fans captivated by Pimblett’s unique charm and fighting spirit.
Garbrandt’s comments highlight the camaraderie and respect that can develop between athletes who appreciate the entertainment aspect of combat sports as much as the competition itself.
Pimblett is booked to face Michael Chandler at UFC 314 this weekend.
