Paddy Pimblett acknowledges Michael Chandler‘s tendency to push the boundaries of the rules in fights, attributing responsibility to referees for not penalizing him, and while he anticipates a tough match against Chandler at UFC 314, Pimblett is confident in his ability to win by capitalizing on Chandler’s aggressive style.
Paddy Pimblett isn’t holding back when it comes to Michael Chandler’s tactics. Ahead of their co-main event at UFC 314, Pimblett weighed in on the chatter surrounding Chandler’s alleged rule-bending antics. Justin Gaethje and Dustin Poirier have both accused Chandler of pushing boundaries during fights. Gaethje even suggested that Chandler’s actions warrant point deductions.
Pimblett, however, doesn’t seem too fazed by these accusations. He points fingers at the referees for not catching Chandler in the act. Take his near-comeback against Charles Oliveira, for example. Chandler landed some questionable punches to the back of Oliveira’s head, yet the referee let it slide.
“If you’re not cheating, you’re not trying,” Pimblett quipped in a chat with Jon Anik. He believes it’s up to the ref to call out such fouls. Oliveira should’ve moved his head or protested more vocally if he felt wronged.
Poirier had his own run-in with Chandler’s unconventional methods. During their fight, Poirier claimed he had to bite down on Chandler’s fingers to defend himself—a move that could’ve ended badly without a mouthguard.
Pimblett has a clear stance on this: if Chandler tries any funny business at UFC 314, he’ll respond in kind. “I’ll bite his fingers,” Pimblett warned, echoing Poirier’s sentiments.
Despite all the controversy surrounding Chandler, Pimblett seems oddly impressed by his relentless pursuit of victory. He even admires Chandler’s win-at-all-costs mindset.
When it comes to predicting their fight, Pimblett is confident but non-specific about how he’ll secure victory. He anticipates Chandler will come out swinging hard, which could work to Pimblett’s advantage.
Chandler’s aggressive style might just open up opportunities for Pimblett to counter effectively. Whether it’s a punch, knee, or elbow as Chandler steps in, Pimblett feels ready to capitalize and possibly land a knockout blow.
He also entertains the idea of a TKO via leg kicks, doubting that Chandler will attempt a takedown due to the threat of submission. One thing’s certain: Pimblett is prepared for whatever comes his way in the octagon.