5 logical opponents for Paddy Pimblett after UFC London win

UFC lightweight Paddy Pimblett [Image via @espnmma on Twitter]

Paddy Pimblett put on yet another scintillating display in the octagon at UFC London. In his second UFC fight, 'The Baddy' came away with a first-round submission victory over Rodrigo Vargas in front of a raucous English crowd at the O2 Arena in London.

Pimblett doesn't seem to be in a hurry to climb up the lightweight ranks. At just 27, the Scouse sensation still has a long way to go in his career. At the UFC London post-fight press conference, he revealed that he won't fight anyone in the top 15 at 155 pounds until he receives a more lucrative contract.

'The Baddy' wants to see more zeroes 🤑 #UFCLondon https://t.co/keEjfocmYH

Ranked featherweight contender Ilia Topuria called out Pimblett following his win over Jai Herbert at UFC London. However, the undefeated Georgian's offer was turned down by the rising English star. Nevertheless, the bout doesn't make a ton of sense, despite the ongoing feud between the two.

The UFC knows how to handle a potential superstar and will be looking to slow-play Pimblett's career. Much like they have done with Conor McGregor in the past and Sean O'Malley presently, the promotion understands that a fighter's stock can take an unnecessary hit if he/she is put in a non-favorable matchup early on in their career.

On that note, we thought we'd take a look at five realistic opponents for Paddy Pimblett following his win at UFC London.

#5. Jared Gordon – Has previously called out Paddy Pimblett

Jared Gordon joined the UFC in 2017 and has endured a turbulent run in the promotion so far. After a 3-3 start in the famed octagon, 'Flash' seemingly found his groove and put together a three-fight winning streak, which he currently finds himself on. In his most recent outing, Gordon secured a split-decision win over Joe Solecki at UFC Vegas 38.

Following his win over Solecki, Gordon called out Paddy Pimblett. 'The Baddy' subsequently responded and seemed open to the matchup.

Paddy Pimblett and Jared Gordon appear to be planning a March meeting in London 👀

📰 bit.ly/PaddyJared https://t.co/MWmV4D58Vy

While the matchup made sense for all parties involved, it didn't come to fruition. It was initially rumored that Paddy Pimblett and Jared Gordon would square off at UFC London. UFC president Dana White even confirmed the same in a previous interview with Barstool Sports' Dave Portnoy.

However, Rodrigo Vargas was then confirmed as Pimblett's next opponent.

Breaking news from @danawhite on tonight's @DavePortnoyShow: @theufcbaddy will be fighting Jared Gordon on March 19th in London https://t.co/1d7QKPVZqW

Gordon is currently unranked in the UFC lightweight division. Nevertheless, the general consensus is that he is a very good fighter. Two out of his three losses in the UFC came against ranked contender Diego Ferreira and reigning champ Charles Oliveira.

The fact that the promotion was previously eyeing a Gordon-Pimblett matchup goes to show that this bout could come to fruition in the near future.