Paddy Pimblett Eyes Dustin Poirier Showdown After UFC 314 Clash With Michael Chandler

The UFC lightweight division might be getting even spicier. Liverpool’s own Paddy “The Baddy” Pimblett has his sights set on bigger game, and he’s not shy about naming names.

Fresh off the announcement of his five-round co-main event against Michael Chandler at UFC 314, Pimblett is already plotting his next move – and it involves none other than former interim lightweight champion Dustin Poirier.

From Chandler to “The Diamond” – Pimblett’s Bold Callout

I’ve got to give it to Paddy – the man knows how to stay in headlines. While most fighters would be laser-focused on the dangerous Michael Chandler, Pimblett is already planting seeds for his future.

“Chandler first, then I’d love to face Dustin,” Pimblett reportedly told media members during a recent scrum. “He’s a legend of the sport, and beating someone like that would put me right in the title picture.”

This is classic Paddy – confident, borderline cocky, but impossible to ignore. The Liverpudlian has been steadily climbing the UFC ranks since his debut, though Chandler represents by far his toughest test to date.

Insert image of Paddy Pimblett at recent UFC press conference here

Is Paddy Getting Ahead of Himself?

Let’s be real here – calling out Poirier while Chandler looms is either supreme confidence or dangerous oversight. Chandler may be coming off losses, but he’s still an explosive former Bellator champion with one-punch knockout power.

The five-round format also presents new questions about Pimblett’s cardio, which has been questioned in previous outings. Can “The Baddy” maintain his frenetic pace for 25 potential minutes?

The Lightweight Chess Match

The 155-pound division is arguably the UFC’s most talent-rich weight class. Consider this current landscape:

For Pimblett, the Chandler fight represents his first real opportunity to crack the rankings. A win would likely vault him into the top 15, while a victory over someone like Poirier afterward could accelerate his rise dramatically.

Poirier’s Response: Silence Speaks Volumes

As of this writing, Dustin Poirier hasn’t publicly responded to Pimblett’s callout. The Louisiana native is coming off an incredible comeback knockout over Benoît Saint Denis at UFC 299 and has been linked to potential fights with Charles Oliveira and even Conor McGregor for a fourth meeting.

Would “The Diamond” even be interested in facing an unranked (albeit popular) fighter like Pimblett? That remains to be seen, but one thing’s for sure – the UFC loves marketable matchups, and Pimblett vs. Poirier would certainly sell.

Insert image of Dustin Poirier celebrating his UFC 299 victory here

What Chandler Has to Say

Lost in all this future talk is Michael Chandler, who surely can’t appreciate being treated as a stepping stone. The former Bellator champion has been patiently waiting for his repeatedly postponed fight with Conor McGregor, and Pimblett represents a chance to stay active and relevant.

“I’ve heard Paddy talking about Dustin already,” Chandler recently posted on social media. “He’s got a rude awakening coming in July. One fight at a time, kid.”

UFC 314: A Pivotal Moment for “The Baddy”

Regardless of future matchmaking, UFC 314 represents the most significant moment of Pimblett’s career. The five-round co-main event slot shows the UFC’s faith in his star power, and a win over Chandler would validate years of hype.

But if Chandler derails the Pimblett express, talks of Poirier and title shots will quickly evaporate. That’s the brutal reality of the fight game – you’re only as good as your last performance.

What do you think? Is Paddy getting ahead of himself by eyeing Poirier, or is this just the confidence that makes him such an intriguing figure in the sport? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!

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Source: UFC Press Release