Watch: Shy 16-year-old Paddy Pimblett in one of his first interviews is the last kid you'd expect to grow into 'The Baddy'
Paddy Pimblett has established himself as one of the largest upcoming personalities in the sport of mixed martial arts. The currently unranked lightweight wasn't always as outgoing, as evident by his very first interview as a teenage prospect. Pimblett's shyness was on full display as he was interviewed prior to his Cage Warriors debut.
Unable to give more than one sentence in response to the questions asked, Pimblett noted that his coach had already given him the nickname 'The Baddy'. Visibly nervous, the Liverpudlian noted that his preparation included training while also adding that he took the fight five days prior.
Additionally, Pimblett, who was a featherweight at the time, didn't know much about his opponent, only that he was a wrestler. He predicted a victory, adding that it didn't matter if it came by knockout, submission or decision. Finally, he stated that he didn't have any message for his fans or family.
Revisit Paddy Pimblett's first interview at just 16 years old below:
Pimblett would stay true to his prediction, winning the fight by unanimous decision. He went on to become the Cage Warriors featherweight champion before eventually making the move to the UFC in 2021. Thus far in his UFC career, Pimblett is 3-0, while he is 19-3 overall.
Paddy Pimblett to face Jared Gordon at UFC 282
Paddy Pimblett is scheduled to face Jared Gordon at UFC 282, the last pay-per-view event of 2022, in what should be his toughest challenge thus far. It will be his first appearance on a UFC pay-per-view card. While speaking to the Cage Warriors broadcast team, the unranked lightweight shared his desire to fight on the card:
"I'm planning on fighting December 10th. Not on Cage Warriors, it's been a while since you've seen me on Cage Warriors. UFC 282. I want it and I'm planning on fighting December 10th. I'm just waiting for an opponent and for someone to step up and sign on the dotted line."
He added:
"Everyone talks about 'The Baddy', everyone talks about fighting me but when the contract's in front of them, they're not as confident... I don't think anyone's ducking me cause I don't look very scary... I've got the recognition and the following that they haven't got so everyone's gonna try to beat me and steal the hype but no ones gonna do it."
Watch Paddy Pimblett's comments on his desire to fight at UFC 282 below:
"I'm planning on fighting at #UFC282"
Paddy Pimblett gives us an update on when he'll next step into the Octagon... https://t.co/mu9cB2Jbqx