5 logical opponents for Paddy Pimblett after UFC London win

C. Naik
UFC lightweight Paddy Pimblett [Image via @espnmma on Twitter]
UFC lightweight Paddy Pimblett [Image via @espnmma on Twitter]

#4. Matt Frevola – A perfect stylistic matchup for Paddy Pimblett

It's safe to say that Paddy Pimblett has been handed relatively easy matchups in his first two fights in the UFC. He knocked out Luigi Vendramini on his promotional debut last year and choked out Rodrigo Vargas at UFC London to get his career on MMA's biggest stage off to a blistering start.

Considering the hype surrounding Pimblett, the promotion's matchmakers would be wise to hand 'The Baddy' another lower-tier opponent. An ideal opponent for the Liverpool native would be Matt Frevola.

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Frevola earned a UFC contract following a successful outing on Dana White's Contender Series in 2017, where he secured a submission victory. Since joining the promotion, the American has blown hot and cold, going 3-3-1. 'The Steamrolla' is coming off a sensational knockout victory over Genaro Valdez at UFC 270.

Frevola is primarily a striker. His seven-second knockout loss to Terrence McKinney at UFC 263 last year showed that he has gaping holes in his game. He would make for a perfect opponent for Paddy Pimblett if the UFC is looking to give the Liverpool native another favorable matchup.


#3. Alexander Hernandez – A true test of Paddy Pimblett's skills on the mic and in the cage

Alexander Hernandez emerged as a polarizing figure in the UFC upon joining the promotion in 2018.

After a stunning knockout victory over Beneil Dariush on his promotional debut and a dominant performance against Olivier Aubin-Mercier in his next bout, Hernandez started making a lot of noise outside the octagon, seemingly taking inspiration from Conor McGregor.

He boasted an incredibly impressive record at the time and some even bought into the hype. With just two UFC fights under his belt, he was booked to fight MMA veteran Donald Cerrone. Leading up to their clash, Hernandez incessantly belittled Cerrone's skills and talked down to him on numerous occasions. When they finally squared off, 'Cowboy' made a statement, cruising to a second-round TKO victory.

After being humbled by 'Cowboy', Hernandez has never looked the same. In his last six fights, he has gone 3-3 and currently sits outside the lightweight rankings. In his most recent appearance inside the octagon, 'The Great' was submitted by Renato Moicano at UFC 271.

While Alexander Hernandez has struggled quite a bit in recent years, he's always been an entertaining fighter. Moreover, his propensity to antagonize his opponents makes for very interesting contests. A potential bout against Paddy Pimblett will undoubtedly generate a ton of attention.

Pimblett's two opponents in the UFC so far, Vendramini and Vargas, are hardly known for their ability to sell fights. The back-and-forth between Hernandez and 'The Baddy' leading up to a potential fight will be a sight to behold. Fans have already caught a glimpse of the Liverpudlian's abilities on the mic. It'll be interesting to see just how good his trash talking game is when he has a willing and able dance partner.

Additionally, a fight against Hernandez will be a true litmus test of Pimblett's skills. 'The Great' is very well-rounded and has the power to knock anyone out. A win here will silence those who critique 'The Baddy's skills and his star power will likely reach new heights.

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Edited by Harvey Leonard
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