Paddy Pimblett Delivers Career-Defining Performance Against Michael Chandler at UFC 314

By Emil Champlin

On April 12, 2025, the Kaseya Center in Miami was electric as Paddy "The Baddy" Pimblett delivered a statement-making performance in the co-main event of UFC 314, dominating former Bellator lightweight champion Michael Chandler en route to a third-round TKO victory. The fight, which marked the biggest test of Pimblett’s career, saw the charismatic Liverpudlian silence doubters and cement his status as a legitimate contender in the UFC’s stacked lightweight division.

A Showcase of Skill and Strategy

From the opening bell, Pimblett (22-3 MMA, 7-0 UFC) showcased a refined game plan, utilizing his reach advantage and crisp striking to keep Chandler at bay. The 30-year-old Scouser peppered Chandler with low kicks and sharp jabs, frustrating the wrestling-heavy approach of "Iron Mike." While Chandler (23-10 MMA, 2-5 UFC) found early success with a takedown in the first round, Pimblett’s resilience shone through as he scrambled back to his feet, landing elbows and maintaining composure under pressure.

The second round saw Pimblett take control both on the feet and the mat. His striking continued to find a home, and when Chandler attempted another takedown, Pimblett reversed the position, showcasing his often-overlooked grappling skills. The Miami crowd roared as Pimblett controlled the action, setting the stage for a dramatic finish.

A Third-Round Masterclass

The defining moment came early in the third round when Pimblett landed a thunderous flying knee that rocked Chandler. Sensing blood in the water, "The Baddy" unleashed a flurry of strikes, cutting Chandler open and forcing him to retreat. Pimblett pounced, taking the fight to the ground and raining down relentless ground-and-pound. At 3:07 of Round 3, referee Herb Dean stepped in to stop the onslaught, awarding Pimblett the TKO victory.

The arena erupted as Pimblett celebrated with his signature flair, climbing the cage and soaking in the adulation of the fans. The win marked his seventh consecutive victory in the UFC and propelled him into the lightweight division’s Top 10.

Post-Fight Callouts and Future Prospects

Never one to shy away from the microphone, Pimblett used his post-fight interview to call out some of the biggest names in the division. “I want Dustin, Justin, Charles, or Arman next!” he declared, referencing Dustin Poirier, Justin Gaethje, Charles Oliveira, and Arman Tsarukyan. His bold callouts, paired with his performance, have sparked debates about where he fits in the lightweight title picture.

For Chandler, the loss adds to a challenging UFC tenure. Despite his reputation as a fan-favorite for his all-action style, the 38-year-old has now dropped five of his seven UFC bouts. Questions about his future in the sport linger, though his durability and heart remain undeniable.

What’s Next for "The Baddy"?

Pimblett’s victory over Chandler is a turning point in his career. Once criticized for facing lesser competition, he proved he can hang with—and dominate—elite veterans. His blend of charisma, skill, and marketability makes him a prime candidate for high-profile matchups moving forward. A clash with a top-five lightweight could be on the horizon, with fans already buzzing about potential bouts against the likes of Gaethje or Tsarukyan.

A Night to Remember

UFC 314 will be remembered not only for its thrilling main event—where Alexander Volkanovski reclaimed the featherweight title against Diego Lopes—but also for Pimblett’s coming-of-age moment. The lightweight division, already one of the most competitive in the UFC, just got a lot more interesting with "The Baddy" staking his claim.

As the dust settles on an unforgettable night in Miami, one thing is clear: Paddy Pimblett is no longer just a fan favorite—he’s a force to be reckoned with.

Emil Champlin is a  freelance writer for Veritas Expositae

You can reach him at emil.champlin@veritasexpositae.com