USA TODAY National
Paddy Pimblett had some choice words for Islam Makhachev.
Pimblett (22-4 MMA, 7-0 UFC) took issue with Makhachev scoffing at the idea of him challenging UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria. Makhachev also downplayed his UFC 314 win over Michael Chandler by saying that everyone beats Chandler.
Makhachev (27-1 MMA, 16-1 UFC) has left lightweight belt behind and will challenge Jack Della Maddalena (18-2 MMA, 8-0 UFC) for the welterweight title in the UFC 322 main event Nov. 15 in New York. Pimblett did not hold back when giving his prediction for that fight.
"I hope JDM (Della Maddalena) absolutely punches his little head in, yeah. I hope JDM batters him," Pimblett told UFC Europe. "I think JDM is a much better boxer, and if he can keep it on the feet, then he will absolutely batter him, and I hope he does.
"Islam was chatting pony the other day, saying who have I beat when he got the title shot at lightweight off beating Bobby Green, someone who I beat faster than you, you little bum. How about that one, Islam? Get back down to lightweight, and I'll punch your head in, as well."
For now, Pimblett awaits what's next for him in what appears to be a three-man race for the lightweight title shot along with Justin Gaethje and the winner of Arman Tsarukyan vs. Dan Hooker in the UFC Fight Night 265 headliner on Nov. 22 in Qatar.
This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Paddy Pimblett goes off on Islam Makhachev: 'I'll punch your head in'
Reporting by Farah Hannoun, MMA Junkie / MMA Junkie
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
CNN Politics
Raw Story