Paddy Pimblett Eyes European Showdown with Benoit Saint-Denis for UFC Return
Following his first career defeat in the UFC, Liverpool lightweight star Paddy Pimblett has publicly called for a high-stakes matchup against France's Benoit Saint-Denis. The British fighter suffered a unanimous decision loss to Justin Gaethje in a grueling five-round battle at UFC 324, marking a significant setback in his professional record.
Recovery and Ranking Frustrations Fuel Comeback Plans
Pimblett has returned to training after what he described as a damaging night against Gaethje, during which he sustained visible facial bruising and experienced substantial post-fight weight gain. In a candid discussion on his YouTube channel, Pimblett admitted the loss was difficult but emphasized it would serve as motivation for improvement. Sometimes a setback is needed to come back stronger, he stated, reflecting on the emotional impact of the defeat.
The ranking dynamics have particularly frustrated Pimblett. After his loss to Gaethje, he dropped to sixth in the UFC lightweight rankings, while Saint-Denis ascended to fifth following his impressive knockout victory over Dan Hooker. Pimblett questioned this shift, arguing that the ranking change and recent performances make a bout with Saint-Denis not only logical but compelling for fans.
Why Saint-Denis Presents the Ideal Opponent
Pimblett believes a fight against Benoit Saint-Denis would create a major European headline event, pitting two of the continent's top lightweights against each other. This matchup would excite fans and help me rebuild momentum heading into the summer schedule, he explained. The two fighters have never met before, adding an element of unpredictability to the potential clash.
Saint-Denis enters this discussion in strong form, having recently delivered a spectacular knockout against Dan Hooker that elevated his standing in the competitive lightweight division. His aggressive style and rising profile make him an attractive opponent for Pimblett's comeback narrative.
Backup Options and Summer Return Timeline
While prioritizing a fight with Saint-Denis, Pimblett has outlined several backup options to ensure his return to the octagon this summer. He mentioned potential matchups against the loser of the upcoming Max Holloway versus Charles Oliveira bout, or even a fight with Arman Tsarukyan if the UFC organization desires it. I am ready to sign any contract offered, Pimblett declared, showcasing his eagerness to compete again.
The British fighter confirmed he has no lingering injuries from the Gaethje fight and plans to return during the summer months. He revealed that his coaches had restricted him from sparring despite him feeling physically fine and displaying no concussion symptoms, indicating a cautious approach to his recovery.
Analyzing the Gaethje Defeat
Pimblett provided detailed insights into his loss to Justin Gaethje, describing the critical moment that led to his knockdown. He explained that Gaethje struck his sternum during an attempted uppercut, causing severe pain that left him unable to breathe momentarily. The knockdown was due to that pain rather than a punch hurting me, Pimblett clarified, offering a technical perspective on the fight's turning point.
Additionally, Pimblett pointed to an earlier eye poke incident that he believes should have resulted in a point deduction for Gaethje. He argued that this officiating decision could have altered the fight's outcome, though he maintained that he was never seriously hurt throughout the five-round contest. This analysis underscores his confidence and determination to learn from the experience.
As Paddy Pimblett prepares for his comeback, the potential showdown with Benoit Saint-Denis represents more than just another fight—it's an opportunity to reclaim his position in the lightweight rankings and reestablish his momentum in one of the UFC's most competitive divisions.
