5 logical opponents for Paddy Pimblett after UFC London win

#2. Diego Ferriera – An opportunity for Paddy Pimblett to break into the rankings

While Paddy Pimblett did make it clear that he isn't interested in ranked fighters in the UFC lightweight division until he receives a better contract, the right matchup could change his mind. Additionally, a win over a ranked contender could fast-track the possibility of a better, more lucrative deal.

UFC veteran Diego Ferriera currently occupies the No.15 spot in the lightweight rankings. The Brazilian has been in the UFC for more than seven years and has faced some of the best fighters the promotion has to offer. He is currently riding a three-fight losing streak and it appears as though his age has finally caught up to him.

While Paddy Pimblett has enjoyed a solid start to his UFC career, his performances have been far from flawless. He's had to overcome adversity in both of his bouts in the octagon so far and many believe he will struggle against top-tier fighters.

Ferriera has only lost to elite fighters during his time in the world's premier MMA promotion, having picked up losses to the likes of Dustin Poirier, Beneil Dariush, Gregor Gillespie and Mateusz Gamrot. At 37, Ferriera is likely on the final stretch of his run in the UFC. Moreover, he has beaten top lightweights like Rustam Khabilov and former champion Anthony Pettis.

All things considered, a potential fight against Pimblett makes a lot of sense.

---

#1. Michael Johnson – A big name for Paddy Pimblett to potentially add to his record

Michael Johnson has been in the UFC for over a decade. He was a contestant on The Ultimate Fighter: Team St-Pierre vs. Team Koscheck. After making it all the way to the final of the show and coming up short against Jonathan Brookins, he was given a UFC contract in 2011.

Johnson's professional record stands at 19-17. He has fought the biggest names in the lightweight division during his time in the UFC and is vastly experienced. Having fought in high-profile bouts against the likes of Nate Diaz, Khabib Nurmagomedov and Justin Gaethje, he has become a known entity even among the casual fans.

More importantly, Johnson has claimed victories over the likes of Tony Ferguson, Joe Lauzon, Edson Barboza and Dustin Poirier. This further highlights that he's no scrub when it comes to cagefighting.

Johnson has seemingly accepted that he won't be competing for UFC titles down the line. However, he still has a name in the promotion and young up-and-coming fighters might be eyeing his scalp as a solid addition to their professional records.

Following his win over Vargas at UFC London, Paddy Pimblett called for his next fight to be at the iconic Anfield stadium in Liverpool. While Pimblett claims that his name alone can fill the stadium, he will likely need a worthy dance partner to sell over 50,000 tickets.

Without a doubt, Pimblett-Johnson bout has the potential to attract a lot of fans.

At the UFC London post-fight press conference, Dana White confirmed that the promotion will be looking to return to England later this year. With Paddy Pimblett's star power continuing to grow, the UFC could choose to strike when the iron's hot.

Seeing his walkout at the O2 Arena was incredible. One can only imagine how a football stadium full of Scousers would embrace 'The Baddy'.

A main event slot opposite a UFC veteran like Michael Johnson could prove to be the perfect springboard for Pimblett's career, similar to Conor McGregor's memorable homecoming in 2014 against Diego Brandao in Dublin, Ireland.