5 reasons why Paddy Pimblett could surpass Conor McGregor's popularity in the UFC
Paddy Pimblett quickly emerged as one of the UFC's rising stars in an era when the MMA promotion has more mainstream media attention than ever before. A former world champion from the Cage Warriors promotion, Paddy Pimblett has stamped his mark on the UFC lightweight division with back-to-back finishes.
While 'The Baddy' is yet to earn a ranking in the division's top 15, he has endeared himself to fight fans around the world with his colorful personality, brash swagger, and recognizable haircut. As entertaining as his character has been outside the cage, it is his exploits inside the octagon that have reinforced fan interest in his young career.
Thus far, Paddy Pimblett has produced nothing but thrilling bouts in the UFC. The rising lightweight star rarely allows his fights to end via judges' decision. Whether it's with his striking or his dangerous submission grappling, the Scouser always seeks to finish his fights.
As the UFC brass exhibits increasing interest in promoting Pimblett, the question has arisen as to whether Liverpool's latest MMA export can surpass former UFC lightweight and featherweight champion Conor McGregor's popularity.
This list aims to tackle the reasons why that may indeed be the case.
#5. Paddy Pimblett's fanbase
One of the key factors that helped Conor McGregor launch himself into MMA superstardom was his loyal fanbase — a fanbase that is largely comprised of his own countrymen.
McGregor's every move was, and still is, followed by a legion of fans whose loyalty to him is tied to their shared nationality. It offered a common thread through which fans felt they could connect with him, and every McGregor victory gave them a surge of national pride.
Listen to that ROAR 🔉
Has there been any UK fighter that has controlled a crowd like Paddy Pimblett?🤯
https://t.co/M5Ny1Xj5WM
Paddy Pimblett is another fighter who commands such a fanbase. Instead of Irish fans, however, 'The Baddy' is trailed by English fans. While the UFC is bloated with fighters representing the likes of the United States and Brazil, fighters from more underrepresented countries tend to enjoy greater support from their fellow countrymen due to how few of them seem to populate the sport of MMA.
English fans in all sports are among the most fervent supporters of their chosen athletes and teams. This is no different when it comes to Pimblett.
In both of the UFC's recent events in London, no fighter — not even main eventer Tom Aspinall — generated as loud a crowd reaction as Paddy Pimblett. With a loyal fanbase who will likely follow him wherever he goes, Pimblett may very well be able to rival McGregor's popularity as a fighter in the near future.