Home/UFC

via Imago

via Imago

Paddy Pimblett, the charismatic UFC lightweight, is as famous for his thrilling performances in the Octagon as he is for his larger-than-life personality outside it. However, “The Baddy” has also gained attention for a less favorable reason—his dramatic weight fluctuations between fights. Known for indulging in his love of food during downtime, Pimblett often balloons in weight, a pattern that has sparked concern among fans and experts alike.

While his ability to shed pounds for fight camps is impressive, the repeated cycle of weight gain and loss has raised questions about its long-term impact on his health and career longevity. But according to the 29-year-old, he just tends to stay bloated when he’s not fighting.

Paddy Pimblett shares what exactly happens to his body when he’s not fighting

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Paddy Pimblett, between fights, unapologetically indulges in his love for food, often ballooning to weights as high as 200 pounds, far above the lightweight division’s 155-pound limit. Pimblett, however, remains unfazed by the criticism. He embraces his off-season habits with a carefree attitude, endearing himself even more to his loyal fanbase.

During his own chat show on his YouTube channel, the Scouser shared what happens when he is not fighting. He said, “That’s the thing with me lad. Like now I am just going back to my normal weight. I am about 88kg you know what I mean. After a fight week lad I end up going to 95 or 93 it’s just very depleted it holds on to like everything. “When I put [my body] in starvation mode for a week [to make weight for the fight], my body holds on to everything. So as soon as I have salty stuff, it just holds the water in me. That’s why I look bloated rather than fat. It’s just my cheeks. It’s just bloated, you know what I mean.” 

Pimblett, however, remains unfazed by the criticism. “I’d rather be fat and happy than ripped and miserable,” he quips, embodying the confidence that has endeared him to fans worldwide. While his dedication to cutting weight and preparing for fights is undeniable, his off-season indulgence has become part of his brand—a symbol of his relatable, no-nonsense personality. Love it or hate it, Paddy Pimblett’s carefree attitude towards weight gain is as much a part of his charm as his knockout victories.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

The 29-year-old is currently waiting for his next big fight in the division. However, he has taken a special liking for featherweight champion Ilia Topuria. Topuria is currently one of the most dangerous fighters in the UFC, having become the first fighter to KO Max Holloway at UFC 308. However, Pimblett isn’t quite worried about the hype surrounding him and feels he is better than the champion.

Paddy Pimblett is confident that he can beat Ilia Topuria in the lightweight division

Paddy Pimblett and Ilia Topuria have developed one of the most heated rivalries in the UFC’s lightweight division, fueled by a mix of personal animosity and competitive tension. The bad blood between the two began outside the Octagon, escalating during a backstage altercation at UFC London in early 2022. The exchange, which included verbal jabs and even a thrown bottle, set the stage for a grudge that has captured the attention of fight fans worldwide.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Their contrasting personas have only added fuel to their rivalry, with Topuria branding Pimblett as “unprofessional” and Pimblett firing back with his trademark banter. Pimblett recently took to his social media to point out what exactly he feels about ‘El Matador”. He said, “He is good, but I still beat him. Styles make fights. People can laugh all they want, but all I hope is that one day we get to fight, and then I can say, ‘I told you so.’ Just like I did after I saw Bobby Green in the first round. I have too much range on him. He wouldn’t be able to get near me. If he did, I’d sub him. Keep doubting me.” Although the UFC has yet to officially book a fight between them, the tension continues to build.

Pimblett’s growing popularity and Topuria’s rise through the ranks make this potential matchup one of the most anticipated fights. Fans are eager to see if this war of words will culminate in an explosive clash inside the cage. Will the pair fight each other next inside the Octagon? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.