Matt Brown, known for his grounded approach to victories, acknowledges Paddy Pimblett`s excitement after his significant win against Michael Chandler at UFC 314. He understands celebrating milestones.
However, Brown is critical of Pimblett`s post-fight lifestyle, specifically the extreme weight gain. Brown believes this behavior is detrimental and could negatively impact Pimblett`s future in MMA. Pimblett has openly discussed gaining substantial weight after fights and then cutting down for his matches. Brown cautions that this approach is unsustainable and likely to be harmful in the long run.
“If I were his coach,” Brown stated on The Fighter vs. The Writer podcast, “I’d be worried. Fighters have a limited career span, maybe 15 to 20 years at most. It`s crucial to maximize this time. Controlling weight and avoiding excessive gain after fights isn`t a huge sacrifice. Enjoy life in moderation and get back to training the following week. That`s a balanced approach.”
Brown emphasized the importance of mental clarity and discipline in training, especially for younger fighters who often feel invincible and disregard long-term consequences. He noted that time passes quickly, and neglecting discipline in youth can have repercussions later in their careers.
While Pimblett`s weight fluctuations haven`t yet affected his UFC performances, Brown points out that the 30-year-old is now competing at a higher level in the UFC`s lightweight division, known for its intense competition.
Victory over Chandler was a major achievement, but Pimblett still faces numerous highly-ranked lightweight contenders on his path to a potential title shot.
“We often push hard to achieve something, then relax once we get it,” Brown observed. “This isn`t the right mindset. Pimblett is in a fiercely competitive division and needs to stay focused. He`s now facing top-tier fighters.”
Brown contrasted fighting in smaller leagues like LFA or Cage Warriors, where Pimblett previously competed, with the UFC`s 155-pound division, highlighting the significantly higher level of competition.
Brown attributes his own 15-year UFC career in part to strict discipline. While exceptions exist, he believes most successful fighters achieve longevity and success through dedicated effort and focus.
“Every day you’re not fully committed to training, every day you’re carrying extra weight, every day you’re not maximizing your potential, someone else is,” Brown warned. He cited Georges St-Pierre as an example of an exceptionally disciplined champion and contrasted him with Jon Jones, suggesting Jones might have achieved even more with greater discipline. Brown believes maximizing potential requires consistent dedication.
Brown concluded by cautioning Pimblett that public opinion can quickly shift. Current praise can turn to criticism if Pimblett`s performance declines, and his weight gain could become a negative narrative rather than a lighthearted joke.
“He needs to stay focused,” Brown reiterated. “If I were his coach, I’d be concerned about his lifestyle. He’s close to the top; this isn`t the time to relax. It’s time to double down on his efforts, work harder and smarter.”
