While Paddy Pimblett has undeniably captured the admiration of fans through his rapid ascent towards UFC title contention, not everyone in the sport`s upper echelons shares the same confidence in his championship prospects.
The Liverpudlian was once considered somewhat of a novelty in the lightweight division. Many experts believed he would struggle against higher-ranked opponents. However, impressive wins against King Green and Michael Chandler have since silenced these critics, demonstrating his legitimate skill.
Fueled in part by a long-standing and intense rivalry, speculation is growing that Pimblett, known as `The Baddy,` might soon challenge the recently crowned champion, Ilia Topuria, for a world title. However, fellow contender Beneil Dariush expresses skepticism about Pimblett`s ability to compete effectively at that elite level.
Beneil Dariush Questions Paddy Pimblett`s Odds Against Ilia Topuria
Even after an extended break from competition, Paddy Pimblett has seen his stock rise in the UFC lightweight division. Currently ranked seventh, just two spots above him is Beneil Dariush, who previously sought a bout with Pimblett at UFC 322, a fight that ultimately did not materialize.
During an interview with Submission Radio, Dariush openly doubted Pimblett`s potential as a challenger to Topuria. “No, not particularly,” Dariush stated. “I honestly can’t see where he would be a threat.” He elaborated on his concerns: “In the striking? I think he’s going to be in a lot of danger. Then, in the grappling, if he gets a takedown, he’s a very good grappler. But do I think he can get a takedown on Ilia? I don’t know, because from what I’ve seen and heard about Ilia, he has fantastic wrestling and his takedown defense is world class.”
Dariush Suggests UFC `Protected` Pimblett from UFC 322 Matchup
Dariush had expressed a desire to fight Pimblett, citing their close rankings, and believed UFC 322 at Madison Square Garden would have been an ideal venue. However, the UFC apparently dismissed the proposal, informing Dariush that Pimblett was `busy.`
Instead, Dariush is set to face Benoit Saint-Denis. He implies that the UFC sometimes shields certain fighters, especially those with considerable public appeal but perhaps not the highest ranking, from potentially damaging losses. “In some cases, they protect some of their guys,” Dariush asserted. “They don’t want me to spoil some of these guys, so I think to some degree, unless they absolutely have to give me a top-ranked opponent, they prefer not to.”
