Paddy Pimblett Teases “Big Name” Next Opponent – Who’s in the Crosshairs?

The UFC lightweight division is buzzing, and at the center of all that chatter is Liverpool’s own Paddy “The Baddy” Pimblett. The blonde-haired Scouser hasn’t even stepped into the octagon for his next fight, but he’s already stirring the pot by claiming his next opponent will be a “major name” in the division.

I’ve followed Paddy’s career since his Cage Warriors days, and I’ve got to tell you – when this guy talks, the MMA world listens. But is this just classic Paddy bravado, or is there something brewing behind the scenes?

Why Paddy Pimblett’s Next Fight Matters More Than You Think

Let’s be real here. Paddy Pimblett isn’t just any fighter on the UFC roster. With his distinctive bowl cut, charismatic personality, and growing fanbase, he’s become one of the most marketable fighters in the promotion despite not being ranked in the top 15 yet.

His 4-0 UFC record is impressive, but critics point to the level of competition he’s faced so far. A big-name opponent would silence those doubters and potentially catapult him into the rankings.

Insert image of Paddy Pimblett celebrating after his last victory here

The Potential Match-Ups That Make Sense

So who might this “major name” be? Looking at the lightweight landscape, several intriguing possibilities emerge:

1. Tony Ferguson

The former interim champion would give Paddy a recognized name on his resume. Ferguson is on a tough skid, but his name value remains high, and stylistically, this could be a barn-burner that benefits both fighters.

2. Dan Hooker

The “Hangman” has been in there with the division’s elite and would represent a significant step up in competition for Pimblett. Hooker’s striking-heavy approach would test Paddy’s stand-up game in ways we haven’t seen yet.

3. Bobby Green

A veteran with slick boxing and endless trash talk, Green would make for both an entertaining build-up and a challenging stylistic matchup for the Liverpudlian.

4. Michael Chandler

This might be shooting for the stars, but Chandler needs a fight, and the promotional value would be enormous. Both fighters have flair for the dramatic and finishing ability.

What This Fight Means for Paddy’s Career Trajectory

You might be wondering why this next fight is so crucial for Pimblett. After four UFC wins against unranked opposition, this is his moment to prove he belongs with the elite.

The UFC lightweight division might be the most talent-stacked weight class in combat sports. Breaking into the top 15 requires defeating established names, and that’s exactly what Paddy seems to be angling for.

If he can defeat a recognizable opponent in his next outing, we might be looking at Paddy Pimblett, ranked UFC lightweight – a far cry from the “hype job” label some critics have tried to pin on him.

Is Paddy Ready for a Major Step Up?

This is where things get interesting. Paddy’s UFC performances have shown both brilliance and vulnerability. He’s been hit, he’s been in trouble, but he’s always found a way to win.

His ground game is legitimately high-level, with three of his four UFC victories coming by submission. But against higher-ranked competition, will he be able to implement his grappling effectively?

The answer might come down to his continued work with the team at Next Generation UK, where he’s reportedly been making significant improvements to his striking defense – previously considered his biggest weakness.

When Can We Expect the Announcement?

While Pimblett hasn’t given a specific timeline, UFC matchmakers typically work 2-3 months ahead for non-title fights. Given his growing popularity, don’t be surprised to see him featured on an upcoming pay-per-view card rather than a Fight Night event.

The UFC’s return to the UK later this year would be the perfect setting for Paddy’s next appearance, especially against a notable opponent who could help fill the O2 Arena.

The Bottom Line on Paddy’s Next Challenge

Whether you love him or hate him (and there seems to be very little middle ground with Paddy), his next fight will be appointment viewing for MMA fans. The brash Liverpudlian has backed up his talk so far in his UFC career, but this next test – against what he claims will be a “major name” – represents his biggest opportunity yet.

Who do you think Paddy should face next? Would you rather see him take on a veteran like Ferguson or test himself against a current ranked fighter? Let me know in the comments below!

Until the official announcement drops, we’ll all be left speculating about who’s next to face the “Baddy” – but one thing’s for certain: whoever it is, Paddy Pimblett will make sure the fight doesn’t lack for attention or entertainment value.

Source: Based on recent statements from Paddy Pimblett regarding his next potential UFC opponent.