Demetrious Johnson, a renowned flyweight champion, is a significant supporter of Paddy Pimblett`s championship dreams.
In a recent YouTube video, Johnson, often called the “flyweight GOAT,” expressed high praise for Pimblett while analyzing some of Pimblett`s past victories. This endorsement comes as “The Baddy” prepares to face Michael Chandler this Saturday as the co-main event at UFC 314 in Miami.
Johnson went as far as to suggest that Pimblett`s ultimate potential lies at the very top of the UFC`s lightweight division.
“I can`t wait to see him reach a point where—I genuinely believe he will be champion one day,” Johnson stated. “If he doesn`t become champion, he`ll be remembered as one of those exceptionally talented fighters who just missed the title, like Urijah Faber or Joseph Benavidez. Currently, at this stage of his career and in his recent fights, he`s doing everything correctly, such as when he fought King Green.”
Johnson specifically examined Pimblett`s 2018 triangle choke submission of Alexis Savvidis and his 2024 triangle choke submission of King Green at UFC 304. These fights highlighted Pimblett`s impressive grappling abilities.
Johnson credits Pimblett not only for his toughness—Pimblett has never been knocked out in his 25 professional fights—but also for possessing a high level of technique that opponents struggle to counter.
“Many people overlook how Paddy has reached his current position,” Johnson commented. “Paddy has faced criticism regarding his fighting style because he absorbs a lot of strikes. However, one aspect I truly admire about Paddy is his unwavering commitment in every fight. Whether he`s in a difficult situation or dominating, he consistently gives his all. He exhibits a diverse range of attacks and is exceptionally skilled when he competes.”
Pimblett aims to extend his UFC record to 7-0 with a victory over Chandler on Saturday. He is currently on a streak of wins against experienced fighters like Green and Tony Ferguson. Johnson appreciates that Pimblett’s fundamental approach to fighting remains consistent even as he faces increasingly challenging opponents.
“He fought with the same style back in 2018,” Johnson noted. “His fight against Green was in 2024, illustrating that Paddy Pimblett has always fought this way. People often focus on his outspoken personality, weight fluctuations, and other aspects, but he excels at creating scrambles, gaining advantageous positions, and securing submissions.”
“Therefore, if he faces Michael Chandler and Chandler lands a couple of strikes, pushes him against the cage, and takes him down, Pimblett will be actively seeking opportunities to showcase his excellent jiu-jitsu and attempt submissions.”
Reflecting on Pimblett`s potential, Johnson`s endorsement is encouraging. While reaching the pinnacle of the lightweight division is incredibly challenging, and Pimblett might not be favored against current champion Islam Makhachev, a win against Chandler would significantly increase the possibility of a future title challenge, a remarkable achievement in itself.
