UFC 314: Michael Chandler vs. Paddy Pimblett: Live round-by-round updates
A lightweight clash between Michael Chandler and Paddy Pimblett will serve as co-main event at UFC 314 later this evening (April 12) at the Kaseya Center in Miami.
Chandler (23-9) is perhaps the most entertaining fighter in all of MMA and a true superstar of the sport. His exploits in Bellator and adrenaline-raising performances in the UFC have made him a true fan favorite.
'Iron' possesses an explosive style and he has dynamite in his hand capable of shutting the lights out of any lightweight on the planet. However, at 38 years old, the Missouri man seems to be on the latter end of his career.
He is 1-4 in his last five and is currently on a two-fight skid. After getting dominated on the ground by Charles Oliveira last year, many also believe the former NCAA Division I star's wrestling is not as sharp as it once used to be.
Pimblett (22-3) believes that wrestling is not the only attribute, 'Iron' lost, but also his explosiveness that once made him a knock-out threat on the feet. The Englishman believes he will finish Chandler this weekend.
'The Baddy' is on a dream run in the UFC, the Scouser is undefeated in the promotion, most recently submitting King Green in the first round at UFC 304.
Pimblett will enter the fight as a -148 favorite over Chandler (+124 underdog) for the match-up. The main card of UFC 314 is now live. Stick with Sportskeeda for live coverage and play-by-play updates from the fight card.
Check out the final face-off between Michael Chandler and Paddy Pimblett below:
UFC 314: Michael Chandler vs. Paddy Pimblett
Round 1
Pimblett opens up with a jab. Chandler is looking for a chance to explode into a combination. The Englishman is employing back-to-back leg kicks. 'Iron' misses with a looping overhand right.
Chandler picks up the Scouser and slams him to the ground. 'Iron' is on his opponent's back, however, he has yet to do any damage from the position. Pimblett looks like he is trying to set up a kimura.
A few punches to the head, make Pimblett let go of the kimura attempt. As the pair gets back to their feet, Pimblett jumps up and locks in a triangle, however, the veteran Chandler slips out of it.
A powerful straight right-hand lands for Pimblett. 'The Baddy' is on the front foot with Chandler circling to the right. A flurry lands for Pimblett at the end of the round.
Our score: 10-9 Pimblett. 10-9 Pimblett overall.
Round 2
Double jabs land for Chandler. A right-hand slips in for 'The Baddy'. Both fighters land leg kicks. 'The Baddy' is clearly out landing his opponent on the feet. An accidental low blow by 'Iron' momentarily halts the action.
As the fight restarts, Chandler tries a level change but fails to complete it. A quick 1-2 lands for Chandler. 'Iron' once again slams his opponent to the canvas. As Chandler gets once more takedown, Pimblett reverses position and locks in an arm triangle.
Back-to-back elbow to the head lands for Pimblett. The Scouser transitions to his opponent's back. 'The Baddy' is landing debilitating elbows.
Our score: 10-9 Pimblett, Pimblett 20-18 overall.
Round 3
As the third round unfolds. Pimbett splits his opponent's face open with a jumping knee strike. 'The Baddy' quickly employs a level change and takes his opponent's back.
Pimblett is trying to sink in a rear naked choke. 'Iron' is in pure defensive mode. The Englishman attempts a face crank. However, Pimblett ultimately transitions back to top control before raining down vicious ground and pound, leaving his opponent bloodied up, and forcing the referee to stop the fight.
Pimblett stops Chandler in the third round.
Official result: Paddy Pimblett def. Michael Chandler via TKO. (3:07 of Round 3)
Check out Paddy Pimblett celebrate his UFC 314 win below: