Paddy Pimblett criticized Renato Moicano for tapping out during his UFC 311 fight against Islam Makhachev, sparking a social media exchange and potentially setting up a future matchup between the two fighters, while retired UFC legend Matt Brown dismissed Pimblett’s comments as attention-seeking.
Paddy Pimblett has never fought for a UFC title, but he’s got plenty to say about Renato Moicano’s recent performance. Moicano came up short against Islam Makhachev at UFC 311, and Paddy didn’t hold back.
The outspoken Brit slammed Moicano for tapping out from a D’arce choke, saying he should’ve "gone to sleep" instead. He later called Moicano a "bitch" on social media for tapping so quickly. Ouch!
Retired UFC legend Matt Brown thinks Paddy is just seeking attention. He believes Pimblett knows better, being a jiu-jitsu guy himself. "You see the tunnel closing when you’re about to go to sleep," Brown said on The Fighter vs. The Writer.
Brown argues that going to sleep doesn’t prove anything. Fighters know when they’re caught; there’s no shame in tapping out. It’s part of the sport, after all.
Pimblett’s not the first to criticize someone for tapping, but Brown can’t understand why that’s the knee-jerk reaction. As a veteran coach, he emphasizes learning from mistakes rather than macho posturing.
Brown feels Moicano is aware of his error after getting caught in the submission. Name-calling is just nonsense, he says. It’s likely Pimblett trying to stir the pot for a potential fight with Moicano.
But let’s be real: going to sleep won’t earn you extra respect or cash. It’s just not worth it. Brown believes even with more notice, Moicano would still have struggled against Makhachev.
Moicano admitted regret over his performance in his post-fight interview. Yet, even on short notice, Brown thinks the outcome would’ve been similar against Makhachev.
Despite disagreeing with Pimblett’s comments, Brown likes the idea of a fight between him and Moicano. It’s a matchup that could catch the UFC’s interest.
In the end, Pimblett might get what he wants—a shot at Moicano—thanks to their social media spat. Could be exciting!
Catch new episodes of The Fighter vs. The Writer every Tuesday on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeartRadio!