Paddy Pimblett and Denis Frimpong resolved their rivalry through a controversial sparring session where Pimblett choked Frimpong unconscious, leading to criticism, but both fighters have since clarified that the incident was settled by mutual agreement.
Paddy Pimblett’s recent spar with rival Denis Frimpong ended in controversy. The choke that left Frimpong unconscious sparked criticism, but “The Baddy” isn’t apologizing.
Footage surfaced showing the gym spar where Pimblett ignored Frimpong’s taps. Social media erupted. So, Pimblett shared his side of the story.
“We both agreed, we don’t stop until someone’s unconscious,” Pimblett stated on YouTube. “Taps don’t count. Quitting to strikes doesn’t count. We just go until someone’s out cold.”
The beef with Frimpong had been brewing for a while. It started with contentious interactions between Frimpong and Pimblett’s teammates.
Pimblett was on holiday when Frimpong claimed he was afraid to fight him. As soon as he returned, Pimblett reissued the challenge.
Frimpong initially declined due to an upcoming bout. But eventually, a spar was arranged through one of Frimpong’s teammates.
“Got up, drove to Manchester Top Team,” Pimblett recalled. “We were in and out within 15 minutes.” He believes Frimpong gave him the choke to avoid a ground-and-pound.
Critics accused Pimblett of lacking honor. Yet he insists all is fair in love and war, citing Frimpong’s own words about landing extra strikes if roles were reversed.
Animosity towards Frimpong stemmed from bullying incidents involving Jake and George, Pimblett’s gym buddies. His protective instincts kicked in.
Frimpong lost to teammate George Staines but celebrated excessively after knocking out Dylan Mitchin later. This irked Pimblett’s coach Paul Reed, igniting further tensions.
“My [strength and conditioning] coach Paul Reed, who’s like my uncle, commented on it saying this is embarrassing,” Pimblett explained.
Despite the drama, things have cooled off now. Both fighters insist there’s no bad blood left between them.
Frimpong even took to social media urging people to “chill out” over the incident. He clarified that he wasn’t actually unconscious during the choke.
Pimblett confirmed their mutual understanding: “We both agreed to never speak about it again. Simple as. End of.”