Paddy Pimblett scores TKO victory over Michael Chandler at UFC 314

In Miami, Florida, on April 12, 2025, Paddy Pimblett faced Michael Chandler in a highly anticipated lightweight bout at UFC 314. The fight was part of the co-main event and scheduled for five rounds. While Chandler initially took control and executed effective takedowns in the first round, it was Pimblett who found his rhythm, showcasing his striking skills with effective leg kicks. By the second round, Pimblett had recovered from an earlier takedown and began to dominate exchanges, threatening Chandler with submission attempts. The turning point came in the third round when Pimblett delivered a devastating jumping knee followed by a takedown. Once on the ground, Pimblett unleashed a series of elbows and punches, overwhelming Chandler who was already bloodied from the previous onslaught. The referee stopped the contest, awarding Pimblett a TKO victory. This win marked a significant milestone for the Liverpudlian fighter, extending his unbeaten record in the UFC to 7-0 and putting him in contention for a title shot. Meanwhile, the loss pushed Chandler's record to 2-5 in the UFC, marking a challenging period in his career as he faces increasing pressure amidst a three-fight losing streak. After the fight, Pimblett expressed his desire to fight top-ranked opponents, signaling his readiness to ascend to the upper echelon of the lightweight division. He specifically called out fighters like Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje, aiming to establish himself as a legitimate title contender. The event was not only significant for Pimblett personally but also for the broader lightweight division, as his victory could reshape the rankings and future matchups. UFC 314 was filled with excitement, and the results showcased new narratives and potential paths for fighters, with the fans eagerly awaiting what comes next in this thriving division.