Pimblett is regarded as the poster boy of Next Generation MMA gym in Liverpool, but in order to be welcomed in with open arms, you must follow three simple rules
Paddy Pimblett has three stern rules that fellow training partners must follow – which include NOT wearing a Manchester United shirt.
The 31-year-old has inspired many since his meteoric rise up the UFC. Since his promotional debut back in 2021, the Scouse scrapper has defeated the likes of King Green and Tony Ferguson. But perhaps his biggest win came in his last appearance – when he knocked out Michael Chandler back in April.
Spearheaded by Paul Rimmer and Ellis Hampson, the Next Generation MMA gym in Liverpool is widely-regarded as one of the best facilities in European MMA. Pimblett, without a doubt, is the poster boy of the gym and has helped develop some real stars over the years.
That said, in order to be welcomed in with open arms, you must abide by three simple rules. That is according to Pimblett’s team-mate and rising UFC sensation, Luke Riley. “No vests, no white socks… no [Manchester] United t-shirts or s**t like that. I’d say they’re the main three [rules],” he said in an interview with SPORTbible.
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There must be a reason behind the no vests or white socks rule, but the Manchester United t-shirts regulation is totally justified. Both Liverpool and Manchester United have locked horns several times over the years – which has formed a unique and historic rivalry between the two teams.
An avid Liverpool fan, the ‘Baddy’ can often be seen cheering on his beloved side at Anfield. During his free time, the 31-year-old makes regular trips to watch his team play across various competitions, such as the Premier League and the Champions League.
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Pimblett has become a real star in the sport as of late and is now accustomed to fighting on blockbuster numbered events, which predominantly take place in America. Despite ruling out a UK return in the near future, the Liverpudlian admits one condition must be met if he were to fight on home soil again. He told Sky Sports : “I think the odds are going lower and lower.
“It would be a shame, obviously but I don’t think anywhere is big enough, unless they come to Anfield – that’s the dream. I’ve spoken to people at the club about it before and they’d be happy to do it, the higher-ups at the club, but it’s just the UFC doing it.”
The ‘Baddy’ returns to the cage on Saturday night when he takes on dangerous lightweight contender Justin Gaethje for the interim lightweight title.
When time does Paddy Pimblett vs Justin Gaethje star?
The mouthwatering showdown between Paddy Pimblett and Justin Gaethje will take place on Saturday, January 24, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The early prelims are expected to get underway at around 10pm GMT (5pm ET / 2pm PT / 4pm CT), with the regular prelims due to start at 12am GMT on Sunday (7pm ET / 4pm PT / 6pm CT). The main card will begin at a new time of 2am GMT on Sunday (9pm ET / 6pm PT / 8pm CT).
In the main event Pimblett will likely make the walk to the cage first at around 4am GMT on Sunday (11pm ET / 8pm PT / 10pm CT), with Gaethje set to follow immediately after. The timings of all fights are subject to change and will depend on how long the undercard takes to complete.
For those watching in the United Kingdom, fans will be able to watch the entire action live on TNT Sports Box Office at a cost of £19.99. The event is available to purchase on discovery+, EE TV, Prime Video, Sky and Virgin Media TV. You do not need to be a TNT Sports subscriber to buy the event. UFC 324 marks a new era for the promotion after penning a deal with Paramount. So, for those watching in America, Paramount+ is where you will be able to watch all of the action.
