March 14, 2025 – Paddy Pimblett has taken the UFC lightweight division by storm, climbing to #12 in the rankings as of January 2025. Although injuries have affected his activity in recent years, his form has been unafffected as he’s amased a 6-0 record in the UFC. A recent submission win over King Green at UFC 304, “The Baddy” is no longer just a fan favorite—he’s a legitimate contender. But what does his current ranking mean for his chances of fighting for the UFC lightweight title in 2025? Let’s break it down.
Paddy Pimblett’s Rise in the UFC Lightweight Rankings
Paddy Pimblett’s journey from Cage Warriors featherweight champion to a top-15 UFC lightweight has been nothing short of remarkable. His latest victory—a first-round triangle choke against the then-#15 ranked Bobby “King” Green—propelled him into the rankings at #15, and subsequent updates have seen him climb to #12. This places him just outside the elite top 10, a group that includes names like Charles Oliveira, Michael Chandler, and Justin Gaethje.
The lightweight division is notoriously stacked, often dubbed the deepest weight class in the UFC. Current champion Islam Makhachev sits atop the throne, with top contenders like Arman Tsarukyan, Justin Gaethje, and Charles Oliveira looming as potential challengers.
What It Takes to Earn a UFC Lightweight Title Shot
Historically, fighters need to crack the top 5—or at least secure a marquee win over a top-10 opponent—to be in serious title contention. Makhachev earned his shot after a 10-fight win streak, capped by a submission over Bobby Green. Charles Oliveira climbed the ranks with a string of finishes before claiming the belt in 2021. For Pimblett, who’s now 6-0 in the UFC with three Performance of the Night bonuses to his name, the blueprint is clear: keep racking up those wins.
At #12, Pimblett is likely two or three big wins away from a title shot. His next fight, against former title challenger Michael Chandler at UFC 314 on April 12, 2025, could be a pivotal moment. A victory over Chandler, currently ranked #6, would catapault Pimblett into the top 10 and put him on the radar of the lightweight title.
The Road Ahead: Potential Opponents in 2025
If Pimblett defeats Chandler at the Kaseya Center in Miami, his 2025 could feature matchups against top-10 lightweights like Mateusz Gamrot or Beneil Dariush. A win over any of these contenders would solidify Pimblett as a top-5 threat, putting him in contention for a number one contender shot. It’ possible that he could even jump ahead of others given the attention he garners, and the fact Makhachev has already fought, and beaten, a number of top lightweights.
Alternatively, a blockbuster clash with Conor McGregor, a former lightweight champion, could fast-track Pimblett’s title aspirations and there has been some speculation on social media. While McGregor isn’t currently ranked, his star power and history with the belt could make it a viable “money fight” that positions Pimblett for a shot at gold—win or lose. The fight is very unlikely McGregor would struggle to get back down to 155lb given his wider frame nowadays.
Challenges Facing Pimblett’s Title Run
Chandler is the main issue at the moment. The former Bellator star doesn’t have the best record in the UFC but that’s only because he has fought top level contenders, and aside from the Charles Oliveira defeat, he has performed really well. Critics point to Pimblett’s defensive striking and cardio as potential weaknesses against the division’s elite – and we all know about Chandler’s relentless engine.
Pimblett’s well-documented weight fluctuations—often ballooning past 180 pounds between camps—raise questions about his discipline and long-term viability at 155 pounds but to be fair to him, in recent months he seems to have not ballooned up in weight nearly as much between fights, indicating he is taking things a little more seriously.
The lightweight division’s volatility also complicates his path. With veterans like Poirier, Gaethje and Oliveira still active, Pimblett can’t afford a misstep if he wants that title shot.
Why 2025 Could Be Pimblett’s Year
Pimblett’s charisma, finishing ability, and growing resume make him a unique contender. At 30 years old, he’s entering his athletic prime, and his fanbase—particularly in the UK—gives him leverage for high-profile bookings. If he beats Chandler in April and secures another top-10 win by late 2025, he could be in line for a title eliminator or even a direct shot at Makhachev’s belt, especially if injuries or upsets shake up the division.
The UFC loves a marketable star, and Pimblett fits the bill. His brash personality could see Dana White push him toward the top faster than a typical contender. A dream scenario? Pimblett headlining at Anfield Stadium in Liverpool against Makhachev in late 2025—unlikely however, given Dana White’s reluctance to host events in stadiums.
Final Thoughts: Is Paddy Pimblett a Future Champion?
If “The Baddy” can string together a few more statement victories, he could be hoisting the UFC lightweight belt by year’s end—or at least knocking on the door.
What do you think? Can Paddy Pimblett break into the top 5 and challenge for the title in 2025? Let us know in the commments.
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