Paddy Pimblett believes he would beat Islam Makhachev in the UFC: 'Obviously'

P. Pimblett believes he would win champion Islam makhachev. Photo: Reproduction / Twitter @UFCEurope

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The self-confidence of Paddy Pimblett has reached another level recently. Currently ranked 13th in the UFC lightweight division (up to 70,3kg), the British fighter is still a few wins away from a title shot. But if he gets there, he is fully confident that he will defeat the champion. Islam makhachev.

Makhachev got past Charles of the Bronxs to claim the title in 2022 and has successfully defended it three times in a row, extending his current winning streak to 14 consecutive fights. Furthermore, the Dagestani fighter holds the UFC's top pound-for-pound ranking, ahead of the likes of Jon Jones, Alex Poatán e Ilia Topuria.

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Pimblett is also in great form. He has won all six of his UFC fights, a result that has given him the confidence to reach the top of the division. When asked if Makhachev had a chance against him, he did not hesitate in his answer.

“Of course people always say, 'Do you think you would win? Islam makhachev?' I'm like, 'Obviously.' You have to do it. Do you think I'm going to sit here and be like, 'No, he would beat me?' Then I'm not a fighter. I'm a coward,” Pimblett said in an interview with the podcast. StillTalkingShow.

Pimblett's two most recent wins have come against veteran names. He defeated Bobby King Green at UFC 304 last July, becoming the first fighter in nearly 15 years to submit Green. But before that he beat the fading Tony Ferguson by unanimous decision. The Liverpool native has gained considerable notoriety for his performances inside the Octagon and his bravery, which is evident when discussing a potential matchup with Makhachev.

“I respect Islam. He’s a great champion. People will probably laugh at me for saying this, but obviously I think I would beat him. I don’t think any man on this planet would beat me if we were in a cage, I think I would beat everyone,” he concluded.

The UFC recently added the United Kingdom to its calendar as part of its international schedule for the first quarter of 2025. The organization announced UFC Fight Night London for March 22. News that excited another Brazilian in the category, Renato Moicano, who asked a possible confrontation against Paddy Pimblet as the main fight of the event.