Paddy Pimblett Is Here, And The Game’s Changed

Hype is an understatement when describing the number of sweaty palms, intoxicated Englishmen and millions in anxiety while waiting in the wings for Paddy “The Baddy” Pimblett to make the walk, and minutes after he did, the game’s changed.

Not once, but twice Pimblett turned down a head-nod from the Zuffa family in the form of a multi-fight deal simply due to an honest self-assessment Pimblett did.

Plenty of fighters throughout the years like Jimi Manuwa, Israel Adesanya and Jiri Prochazka turned down their first UFC offer with the vision of entering the big leagues when they’re at their true physical and mental prime.

The moniker of the former Cage Warriors champion coming into his debut was loud and clear, not the slightest interest in taking part; it’s always been about taking over, taking over your screen and green, but most importantly, claim UFC gold.

After all, all those dreams and visions would’ve amounted to nothing if Pimblett didn’t blow the Apex’s roof.

Not only did Paddy score a vicious highlight-reel knockout in the first round, but in the first minute of his UFC debut, adversity crept in the form of a darting left hook from Luigi Vendramini. How Pimblett took that shot is beyond me.

Many tend to criticize the technical faults of a fighter when in battle, but few focus on a fighter’s character when met with adversity.

After Saturday’s performance, Pimblett didn’t just show world-class skill level, but most importantly, his composure under the bright lights inferno was something notable that made his debut beyond memorable. Yes, you can refine your skills over time, but character is something none can ever teach.

From a marketing standpoint, the charisma, the accent, the loyal following, and the wild crowd-pleasing style combine into what you call the “It” factor. And who knows, with many bright English prospects falling short of replicating what Michael Bisping did, “The Baddy” might be the chosen one to bring home gold for the second time in UFC history.

This is a game of confidence, unmatchable self-belief, and relentless desire that’s attached to a dream very few will ever manifest. It all starts with ambition fueled by a cosmic vision. Intuition for superstardom is what Pimblett sees.

Seconds after Pimblett’s sensational first-round knockout, he grabbed the mic to announce his arrival to his fellow lightweight competitors.

“I’m here to takeover lad, I’m the new man lad, people are gonna be calling me out now. You know who the boy is.”

The future is unforeseeable, but for now, ship a rocket to the moon draped with English flags on it to the sphere, “The Baddy” is here.