Ronda Rousey praises Paddy Pimblett for acknowledging his “entertainer” status in the UFC.
Since debuting in 2021, Pimblitt has been riding the wave of Dana White's promotion to superstardom, much like Rousey when she defeated Liz Carmouche in 2013 to become the first UFC women's champion.
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Pimblitt defeated Michael Chandler in April to move up the UFC's lightweight ranks – and he now wants a title shot nextImage source: Getty
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“The Bad Guy” was drawing worldwide attention for his bold personality and unique hairstyle long before Dana White's promotionImage source: Getty
The Liverpudlian dominated fellow top lightweight contender Michael Chandler in his last fight at UFC 314 and is now eyeing a title shot against Ilia Topuria.
With his larger-than-life personality and gorgeous hair, Pimblitt built a strong MMA following even before entering the UFC, and has continued that momentum over the past four years, becoming one of the promotion's biggest stars with sold-out shows.
He's managed to stay on top by entertaining fans inside and outside the Octagon, and his ability to hone the business side of things while still being talented is something Rousey values.
Ronda Rousey: I admire Paddy Pimmlett as an entertainer
“I think that’s what’s really important, you can let people who don’t watch the fight know who you are,” Rousey said in an interview with MMA Fighting.
“That's how you become an entertainer. I think a lot of fighters don't realize they're entertainers too.
“I think the one person who really realized that was Paddy Pimblett, so I’m really grateful to him.”
Rousey to resume training amid UFC White House rumors
Rousey retired from MMA in 2016 after losing back-to-back championship bouts, sparking rumors of a UFC comeback over the past few months.
In July, six months after welcoming her second child into the world, Rousey posted training footage of her back rolling on a mat, getting some fans talking about her possible return.
UFC CEO White has since reinforced this by working with US President Donald Trump, elevating him to the White House the next year.
Although Rousey last month downplayed rumors of a return to the White House in 2026, “Rowdy” continues to tease a comeback, claiming she has found her love for the sport again.
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Rousey is arguably the greatest women's MMA fighter of all time, and fans have been debating her return to the UFC nine years since she last competedImage source: Getty
Speaking to TMZ Sports earlier this week, Rousey described how good it feels to be back in training.
“I’m enjoying being in the gym again, feeling better and healthier,” Rousey said.
“Have you ever had a baby? It feels like a fucking disabled person getting pregnant.
“It feels really good to have the freedom of movement again and to love training again.
“I feel like that's something I've lost before. I'm enjoying myself.”
White was asked about any conversations with Rousey regarding her return after UFC 320 last weekend.
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White still maintains a contract with Rousey about every three months, but it's not known if she would like to return to the White HouseImage source: Getty
“She and I are still very close,” White said.
“I would say we talk maybe once every three months or something like that, she was in Las Vegas recently.
“She came to the office but I don't know what her plan was. I think she just started training again.
“She had just had two kids and her life was completely different now.
“But I will say, she just had another baby and is doing great. She's just as torn as ever. I don't know.”