Bruce Buffer has witnessed every UFC megastar’s rise and fall firsthand. The famous voice of the Octagon has introduced icons such as Chuck Liddell and Jon Jones, as well as witnessed Conor McGregor redefine superstardom. So, when he picks out someone for having the coveted “it factor,” you pay attention. And, strangely, it’s not Alex Pereira, the man who ruled the Octagon the past year and became a nightmare for anyone in the light heavyweight division. Instead, the one who has piqued Buffer’s interest this time is a loud, boastful Scouser who dances to the cage and talks like a man who already owns the arena: Paddy ‘The Baddy’ Pimblett.

Pimblett has shown major evolution after winning the greatest fight of his career at UFC 314 over a veteran like Michael Chandler. While Bruce Buffer appreciated the results, he focused more on the growth. “He gets better every time he steps into the Octagon,” Buffer said during an interview with TMZ Sports, stressing that most people still underestimate Pimblett’s technical ability. His 7-0 UFC run isn’t just a streak—it’s a steady climb through increasingly tougher competition. The UFC announcer sees this as the proper development of a legitimate challenger, rather than something completely accidental. Someone on the course, in his own words, “to eventually fight for the championship belt, no question.”

However, stardom in the UFC entails more than just wins and highlight reels. It’s about resonance—how a fighter connects with the audience before the blows are fired. Buffer cited Paddy Pimblett’s interviews, viral presence, and the way he lights up a room, whether at a fight camp or on a podcast. “He has a personality that captivates audiences. He’s great for marketing and is actively building a brand for himself. These are all the attributes that add to a fighter’s presence, as you say—gravitas,” Buffer added, comparing Pimblett’s personality and widespread appeal to what propelled Conor McGregor to new heights.

That personality—bold, uncensored, and completely authentic—is a rare weapon in today’s UFC, and it contributes to Pimblett’s marketability. However, it is equally what seems to be missing in Alex Pereira. The ever-so stoic fighter is the perfect antithesis to the likes of Pimblett, and prefers to let his fists do the talking and avoids a war of words altogether. Now, what’s next for ‘The Baddy’? Bruce Buffer has made it clear that he wants the big names, naming top-five lightweights. That would be the ultimate test of Pimblett’s current abilities. But, regardless of who comes next, one thing is certain: Bruce Buffer believes Pimblett is more than just a fan favorite. He has the tools, charisma, and trajectory to become the UFC’s next defining face—and few people get that type of prediction from the man who has been there since the beginning. But is there any one opponent he would like to see ‘The Baddy’ go one-on-one against?

Bruce Buffer names his pick for Paddy Pimblett’s next fight

It’s no longer just about Paddy Pimblett’s potential; it’s about proving he belongs among the division’s best. Bruce Buffer, who is already convinced of Pimblett’s “it factor,” is open about who he would like to see put that ability to the test. While ‘The Baddy’ called out a slew of famous names following UFC 314, Buffer focused on one in particular: Charles Oliveira. For the UFC’s most renowned voice, a fight between Paddy and ‘Do Bronx’ may be the perfect storm—a stylistic thriller that tests Pimblett’s hype while providing fans with a scrap worthy of main-event billing.

Buffer sees it as more than just a marketing dream; it’s a technical masterclass waiting to happen. Both men are gritty and deceptively deadly on the ground and with their feet. Oliveira’s jiu-jitsu is legendary, but Pimblett’s ground game has steadily improved with each bout, and his striking is quickly catching up. The UFC announcer is not predicting an easy ride; he is hinting at a war. “It’s going to be a brawl for it all,” he said, describing the fight as one of those rare occasions when both styles collide and complement each other.

But, as tempting as it sounds, Charles Oliveira doesn’t seem to be biting. With his sights set on a title opportunity, the former champion made it clear that fighting Pimblett is not on his agenda right now. “There’s no reason to think about guys below me,” Oliveira said, dismissing the idea while acknowledging Pimblett’s rising stock. It isn’t an outright dismissal; it’s just business. The fighter from the favelas once talked his way up the ladder, and he understands how the game works. For now, the stars may not align. But, with Paddy Pimblett’s momentum and Buffer’s support, it’s only a matter of time before a major name shows up to dance. What do you think? Who should he fight next? Let us know in the comments.