Despite a tough loss to Justin Gaethje for the UFC interim lightweight title, Paddy Pimblett is eager to face Charles Oliveira next, eager to prove himself against the newly crowned BMF champion. Pimblett argued that his grappling skills can match Oliveira’s and is prepared for a highly competitive fight.
Oliveira’s Strategy Dominates Holloway in BMF Title Win
Charles Oliveira secured a notable upset over Max Holloway at UFC 326 by using consistent takedowns and controlling the fight on the ground. This approach subdued Holloway, who managed to land only 26 significant strikes, while Oliveira achieved five takedowns and maintained almost 21 minutes of ground control, neutralizing one of Holloway’s strengths.
Pimblett Questions Holloway’s Lightweight Grappling Experience
Pimblett suggested that a key factor in Oliveira’s victory was Holloway’s limited experience facing grapplers at lightweight. He pointed out that the size and strength differences Holloway faces after moving up from featherweight could have contributed to his struggles against Oliveira’s wrestling-based approach.
Max has never really fought a grappler at lightweight, has he?
Pimblett said.
So this could be a realization for him that — I don’t know if he could even make 145 [pounds] now as he put a bit of size on, but it doesn’t look like he has because he’s getting manhandled.
Pimblett’s Loss to Gaethje Highlights Need for Grappling Adaptation
Pimblett entered UFC 324 favored against Gaethje but was outmatched by the American’s powerful striking and relentless pace. Pimblett failed to secure any of his five takedown attempts and ultimately lost a decisive decision, with Gaethje moving on to challenge Ilia Topuria for the undisputed title during the UFC’s White House event. Pimblett is now focused on rebuilding his momentum.
Pimblett Considers Oliveira’s Ground Game Key to Victory Strategy
Reflecting on his defeat to Gaethje, Pimblett acknowledged that adopting a similar grappling-heavy game plan to Oliveira’s might have improved his chances, even though it may not satisfy fans hoping for a striking battle. He admitted that a ground-oriented approach could have yielded better results against Gaethje’s striking power.
I’d love to fight Charles, though,
Pimblett said on his YouTube channel.
Everyone goes on about his grappling. Everyone thinks it’s levels above mine, and I know it isn’t. If I fought Charles, we’d probably end up having a war on the feet. Charles’ resume is heavy.
No, I understand what people are saying, it’s not very ‘BMF-like,’
Pimblett added.
That’s right, but at the same time, any way to win. I should have done more of this against Gaethje.
Future Implications for Pimblett’s Career
Pimblett’s readiness to confront Charles Oliveira’s grappling prowess signals a willingness to evolve his fighting style as he looks to bounce back from recent setbacks. Should this matchup materialize, it could be a defining moment in Pimblett’s UFC journey, testing his ground game against one of the organization’s top talents and potentially reshaping his approach to future lightweight contests.
