UNBELIEVABLE REVELATION: Paddy Pimblett’s SHOCKING Move That Could End Islam Makhachev’s Reign as Lightweight King

Paddy Pimblett Plans Title Ambush as Makhachev Eyes Welterweight Glory

In a move that has shocked the MMA world, rising UFC star Paddy Pimblett has set his sights on Islam Makhachev and the lightweight throne. Known for his flamboyant persona and Liverpudlian charm, Pimblett is now making headlines not for his jokes—but for his serious intent to challenge for UFC gold.

As Islam Makhachev prepares to vacate the lightweight division in favor of welterweight glory, Pimblett is preparing for war. The outspoken British fighter has reportedly started an intense training regimen, sharpened his striking, and—perhaps most shockingly—begun working with elite Dagestani wrestlers to prepare for the grappling monster that is Makhachev.

Pimblett: From Entertainer to Title Threat

For years, Paddy “The Baddy” Pimblett has been dismissed by purists as more showman than contender. With his mop-top haircut, thick Scouse accent, and wild post-fight celebrations, Pimblett has built a cult following. But now, fans and critics alike are beginning to realize—there’s a real fighter behind the flash.

The turning point came after his decision win over Jared Gordon, which was widely criticized. Since then, Pimblett has gone dark on social media, ramped up his training, and surrounded himself with top-tier coaches and wrestlers.

According to reports from his gym, Pimblett has dropped 15 pounds of fat, increased his VO2 max, and added new weapons to his striking arsenal. One coach even said, “This is not the same Paddy from Cage Warriors. This is a new animal.”

Islam Makhachev’s Lightweight Dominance May Be Nearing Its End

For the last two years, Islam Makhachev has been untouchable. With his blend of Khabib-style wrestling and ever-improving striking, he’s steamrolled the division, defeating top names like Charles Oliveira and Alexander Volkanovski. Many believed he would hold the UFC lightweight title for years.

But now, Makhachev is planning to move up to welterweight, potentially vacating his title. The UFC has not yet confirmed whether he’ll defend one last time or hand over the belt—but Pimblett is ready to pounce either way.

The idea of Paddy Pimblett fighting for the vacant title may have sounded ludicrous a year ago, but with Makhachev stepping aside and Pimblett transforming into a serious athlete, the stars are aligning for a blockbuster opportunity.

UFC Fans Split Over Paddy’s Legitimacy as a Title Challenger

The MMA fanbase is currently divided over Pimblett’s sudden rise.

On one side are his loyal fans—dubbed the “Baddy Army”—who believe his charisma, skill, and heart make him a perfect champion for the modern era. They argue that the division needs fresh blood, and Paddy’s name sells pay-per-views like no one else at lightweight.

But the hardcore crowd remains skeptical.

“He barely beat Jared Gordon. What makes anyone think he can survive Islam’s pressure?” one user posted on X.

“This guy’s never fought a Top 10 lightweight. It’s all hype,” another added.

Still, even critics agree: Pimblett has improved, and if he scores one more convincing win—possibly against a veteran like Tony Ferguson or Dan Hooker—he could find himself in a title eliminator.

Secret Training With Dagestani Grapplers Raises Eyebrows

Perhaps the most surprising part of this revelation is that Paddy Pimblett has secretly been training with Dagestani wrestlers—the same region that produced Islam Makhachev and Khabib Nurmagomedov.

According to reports from inside his training camp, Pimblett has flown to Dubai multiple times, working with grapplers who understand the unique Sambo-based pressure that made Khabib and Islam nearly impossible to hold off.

An anonymous source from the camp said:

“He’s not trying to become Khabib, but he’s learning how to deal with that pressure. His defensive wrestling is way better. He’s learning to reverse position, not just survive.”

This shift in mentality—from entertainer to engineer of victory—is what has insiders buzzing. For the first time, Pimblett is training like a champion.

UFC Brass Watching Closely as Lightweight Division Opens Up

Behind the scenes, UFC matchmakers are reportedly watching Pimblett closely. With Makhachev potentially vacating, the UFC will need a new lightweight title storyline—and Pimblett vs. any top-5 contender would be massive business.

Dana White has long praised Paddy’s marketability, but questioned his readiness. If Paddy can win one or two high-level fights, the UFC boss might finally greenlight his rise to the top.

And if Makhachev returns to lightweight down the road?

Then we could get one of the most intriguing matchups in modern UFC history:
Paddy Pimblett vs Islam Makhachev – entertainer vs enforcer, charisma vs control, Scouser vs Sambo.

What Would a Paddy vs Makhachev Fight Look Like?

On paper, Islam Makhachev would be a massive favorite. His suffocating style has shut down elite strikers and world-class grapplers alike. But Pimblett’s unpredictable movement, improved jiu-jitsu, and wild aggression could pose problems, especially if he can keep the fight standing.

Paddy is bigger than he looks, with deceptive power and high fight IQ when he’s locked in. If he can keep Islam off him for the first round, and use movement to create chaos, an upset isn’t impossible.

And of course, there’s the mental warfare. Pimblett excels at rattling opponents, and Islam has shown sensitivity to criticism, especially when challenged outside the cage. A war of words might play a bigger role than fans expect.

Pimblett’s Rise Echoes Conor McGregor’s 2015 Surge

The parallels are uncanny. Just like Conor McGregor in 2015, Paddy was seen as a loudmouth from Europe with an exciting but untested style. Then he shocked the world, improved rapidly, and captured gold.

If Paddy Pimblett continues his evolution, a similar path could be in play. And the UFC, always looking for their next mega-star, is certainly paying attention.

Could Paddy be the next British UFC champion since Michael Bisping? If so, the road runs through Makhachev—or the vacuum his departure leaves behind.

Will Islam Makhachev Accept the Challenge or Leave the Division?

As the buzz grows, fans are left wondering: Will Islam Makhachev respond?

Thus far, the Dagestani champion has remained quiet. But if the UFC publicizes Pimblett’s rise and sets up a potential title bout, Islam may be forced to decide—defend one last time or give up the throne.

Paddy Pimblett, for his part, says he’s ready for anyone:

“I’m not scared of Islam. He’s just a man. And I’ve trained for that style. Let’s fookin’ go.”

Those words may seem bold—but they’re backed by a fire and focus we’ve never seen from Paddy “The Baddy” before.

Final Thoughts: Could Paddy Pimblett Shock the World?

The idea of Paddy Pimblett ending Islam Makhachev’s reign seemed laughable just a few months ago. But today, it’s a legitimate storyline, backed by real evolution, serious training, and a potential title vacancy.

Whether he gets a direct shot or must prove himself through eliminators, Pimblett is no longer just hype. He’s a man on a mission.

And if the UFC decides to pull the trigger, we might witness one of the most unlikely—and electric—title fights in MMA history.