Islam Makhachev’s coach, Javier Mendez, has offered some high praise for the rising UFC star Paddy Pimblett, calling him ready for a title shot after his impressive victory over Michael Chandler at UFC 314. The fight, which was Pimblett’s highest-profile contest to date, saw him dominate Chandler, with the exception of a brief exchange in the early rounds. Pimblett’s performance was nothing short of spectacular, as he ultimately finished Chandler by TKO in the third round, solidifying his position as one of the sport’s most exciting contenders.
Mendez, who trains Makhachev, was initially skeptical about Pimblett’s potential but has since been won over by the fighter’s constant evolution inside the octagon. Pimblett has garnered a significant following due to his entertaining style, confidence, and ability to hype up a crowd, and Mendez is now firmly in his corner.
During a recent episode of his “Javier & Mo Show” podcast, Mendez spoke about how impressed he has been with Pimblett’s progress and how the fighter has earned his place in the UFC’s elite ranks. “Paddy is ready to face anybody,” Mendez stated. “What he’s done already, his credentials, his winning record in the UFC, his hype, and what he can do, how he can motivate people. If they give him the next title shot, he deserves it.”
Mendez’s comments are notable given his status as the coach of Islam Makhachev, the current UFC Lightweight Champion. With Makhachev’s reign atop the lightweight division firmly established, many are wondering who his next title defense will be against. However, Makhachev has made it clear that he is not interested in fighting former UFC Featherweight Champion Ilia Topuria at this time. The reason for this, according to Makhachev, is that he has already faced and defeated a former 145-pound champion twice in Alexander Volkanovski. Makhachev has suggested that Topuria should first prove himself in the lightweight division before challenging for the title.
While Makhachev’s focus seems to be on other potential challengers, Mendez’s comments about Pimblett suggest that the UFC’s lightweight division is brimming with talent and excitement. Pimblett has been on an upward trajectory, and his performances have caught the attention of fans and analysts alike. His ability to captivate audiences with his personality and fighting style has made him a fan favorite, and it’s clear that Mendez now sees him as a legitimate threat to the title.
Pimblett’s path to a potential title shot could be a thrilling one, and it seems that the UFC is positioning him for big opportunities. The rising star’s knockout of Chandler at UFC 314 was a defining moment in his career, and it’s clear that he is on the verge of breaking into the upper echelon of the lightweight division.
Mendez, who initially wasn’t the biggest believer in Pimblett, has become a fan of the fighter’s development. “He’s improved every single time,” Mendez said. “Every time he comes out, his confidence is stronger and stronger all the time. His speaking is pretty impressive. I like him. He’s fun to watch.” Mendez also noted that while he may not always understand all of Pimblett’s words due to his accent, he appreciates the fighter’s charisma and sense of humor. “I can’t understand half the words he says, but I do pick up on him… He’s funny.”
As the UFC lightweight division continues to evolve, Makhachev’s dominance is unquestioned, but the emergence of fighters like Pimblett is making things more exciting than ever. Pimblett’s ability to not only perform in the cage but also connect with fans outside of it makes him a valuable asset to the UFC. Whether or not he is next in line for a title shot remains to be seen, but Mendez’s comments have only fueled speculation that the “Baddy” could be closer to a championship fight than ever before.
With Makhachev focused on proving his dominance against other top contenders and Pimblett continuing to rise, it’s clear that the UFC lightweight division is heating up. Fans will undoubtedly be keeping a close eye on both fighters in the coming months to see how their respective careers unfold. The future of the division is full of promise, and it seems that Paddy Pimblett is firmly in the mix for a title shot in the near future.
