MMA legend Demetrious Johnson is a major supporter of Paddy Pimblett`s championship dreams.
In a recent YouTube video, Johnson shared high praise for Pimblett, breaking down some of Pimblett’s past victories. Pimblett is scheduled to fight Michael Chandler this Saturday as the co-main event of UFC 314 in Miami.
Johnson went so far as to say he believes Pimblett could reach the very top of the UFC’s lightweight division.
“I can’t wait to see him get to the point where—Like, I think one day he will be champion,” Johnson stated. He compared Pimblett to fighters like Urijah Faber or Joseph Benavidez, who were highly skilled but never achieved championship status. Johnson believes Pimblett is currently doing everything right in his career, referencing his fights against King Green as examples.
Johnson analyzed Pimblett’s 2018 triangle choke submission of Alexis Savvidis and his 2024 triangle choke submission of King Green at UFC 304. He highlighted Pimblett’s impressive grappling skills displayed in these fights.
Johnson credits Pimblett for his toughness and his high level of technique. Despite criticism about absorbing strikes, Pimblett has never been knocked out in his 25 professional fights.
“A lot of people don’t understand how Paddy got to where he is,” Johnson commented. He admires Pimblett`s fighting spirit, noting that Pimblett “always brings it” whether winning or in trouble. Johnson also praised Pimblett’s diverse attacks and overall skill set.
Pimblett aims to extend his UFC record to 7-0 with a victory over Chandler this Saturday. Coming off wins against veterans Green and Tony Ferguson, Johnson appreciates Pimblett’s consistent approach as he faces tougher competition.
“He did the exact same thing in 2018,” Johnson pointed out, comparing Pimblett’s recent fight to his earlier performances. Johnson emphasizes that Pimblett has always fought in this manner, despite public perception focusing on his outspoken personality and weight fluctuations. He highlighted Pimblett’s ability to create and capitalize on scrambles, often ending in submissions.
Johnson anticipates that if Michael Chandler pressures Pimblett, Pimblett will look to utilize his jiu-jitsu skills and attempt submissions.
Johnson believes Paddy Pimblett is a more skilled fighter than many give him credit for, and he is encouraged to see another expert like himself recognize Pimblett`s potential. While acknowledging the difficulty of reaching the top of the lightweight division and the current unlikelihood of Pimblett defeating Islam Makhachev, Johnson suggests that a win against Chandler could significantly increase Pimblett`s chances of contending for the title in the future.
