Paddy Pimblett has launched a stinging verbal attack on Conor McGregor, following the UFC legend's decision to place a substantial $500,000 wager against the Liverpudlian fighter. The outburst came in the aftermath of Pimblett's impressive victory at UFC 314, where he secured a dominant knockout over Michael Chandler in Miami.
Pimblett's Dominant Performance at UFC 314
The 31-year-old British fighter maintained his flawless record within the UFC, showcasing a masterful display against the seasoned veteran Chandler. From the opening bell, Pimblett controlled the contest with nimble footwork and precise striking, repeatedly catching his opponent off-guard with crisp leg attacks.
By the conclusion of the first round, it was evident that Chandler was tiring under the relentless pressure. In the third round, Pimblett truly seized control, executing a successful takedown before unleashing a barrage of unanswered strikes that forced the referee to intervene and stop the bout.
McGregor's Controversial Betting Stance
Prior to the highly anticipated matchup, Conor McGregor publicly declared his support for Chandler through social media channels. The Irish superstar stated: "What's up, everybody. It's the 'Notorious' ... I want to wish you all a great fight night tonight, and come through for my best bet of the night. The fight I'm interested in is Michael Chandler vs Paddy Pimblett. And I'm going Michael Chandler to win, and win by KO. Though Paddy has improved in his last few outings, I still fancy Chandler to do it. Let's go, boys."
This substantial $500,000 wager would have netted McGregor an impressive $2.5 million had it proven successful. However, Pimblett's dominant performance ensured the bet fell short, leading to a fiery response from the victorious fighter.
Pimblett's Fiery Response to McGregor
During the post-fight press conference, Pimblett did not mince his words when questioned about McGregor's betting decision. "Even (Conor) McGregor putting money on Chandler to win, lad. The Irish-Scouse connection," he declared. "He's meant to back me. And even never! So if he wants it, he can get it as well."
When pressed by journalists about whether McGregor's stance surprised him, Pimblett responded: "Yeah I didn't think he'd go against me, to be honest. I thought he'd back me and not Chandler, but it's one of them isn't it?"
The Liverpudlian fighter elaborated on how he might address McGregor should they cross paths again: "I don't know if I'll ever see him. You never know, I'll say to him 'what happened there? F*****g hell, the Irish-Scouse connection, you're meant to back me, but you went for the Yank instead.' But, it's one of them, if he ever wants to come back, I'll be here waiting."
Looking Ahead to UFC 324
Pimblett is now preparing for his next significant challenge, scheduled to face Justin Gaethje for the interim lightweight title at UFC 324. The highly anticipated showdown will take place on Saturday, January 24, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
UFC boss Dana White has drawn comparisons between Pimblett's career trajectory and McGregor's meteoric rise, telling TMZ: "He reminds me of the Conor McGregor story. He came in with this great personality and was always overlooked. Every time he fought, everybody believed he was going to lose, and Paddy has been that guy - even more so than Conor McGregor."
Since joining the UFC, Pimblett has consistently battled critics who have questioned his abilities after each performance. The upcoming fight against Gaethje presents another opportunity for the 31-year-old to silence his detractors and solidify his position among the sport's elite attractions.
Event Details and Broadcasting Information
The UFC 324 event features a stacked card with the following schedule:
- Early prelims commence at approximately 10pm GMT (5pm ET / 2pm PT / 4pm CT)
- Regular prelims begin at 12am GMT on Sunday (7pm ET / 4pm PT / 6pm CT)
- Main card starts at 2am GMT on Sunday (9pm ET / 6pm PT / 8pm CT)
- Pimblett vs Gaethje main event expected around 4am GMT on Sunday (11pm ET / 8pm PT / 10pm CT)
All timings remain subject to change depending on the duration of undercard bouts. For viewers in the United Kingdom, the entire event will be broadcast live on TNT Sports Box Office at a cost of £19.99, available through multiple platforms including discovery+, EE TV, Prime Video, Sky, and Virgin Media TV. No TNT Sports subscription is required to purchase the event.
American audiences can watch all the action on Paramount+, marking a new broadcasting era for the UFC following their recent partnership agreement.
