Lightweight fighters Michael Chandler and Paddy Pimblett shared their confident predictions in a recent joint interview leading up to their fight.
These two are set to face off in a highly anticipated five-round co-main event at UFC 314 on April 12.
This match is seen as a crucial moment for both fighters: Chandler, a former champion, and Pimblett, a rising contender.
Both fighters are sure they will secure a significant victory in Miami within the next week.
UFC 314 Predictions by Chandler and Pimblett
Pimblett has publicly stated his prediction to finish Chandler within two rounds at UFC 314.
‘The Baddy’ confidently explained his prediction while Chandler listened.
“He has fought the best lightweights for the last five years, but I believe I will defeat him easier than they did,” Pimblett stated in an ESPN MMA interview. “They played into Mike’s style by engaging in brawls with him.”
“I believe I can win wherever the fight goes. The only way I can lose is by getting caught with a big, unexpected shot to the chin. But as everyone knows, people from Liverpool are not easily knocked out. That`s not going to happen.”
“I predict I’ll finish Mike within two rounds. As I said, I can end this fight in any scenario. He tends to lunge with his punches, so I can see myself catching him as he comes in, dropping him. Or I might even submit him. Honestly, I don’t see any way I can lose.”
Chandler offered a less specific prediction but expressed strong confidence in his victory.
“People from Liverpool might not get knocked out, but they haven`t faced someone like me,” he responded.
“I am very excited to test his chin. I will be constantly aggressive and put pressure on Paddy. I`m going to throw powerful strikes, and we will see if he can handle it.”
“Look at the size of my hands. His hands are tiny.”
Paddy Pimblett Aims for UFC Title Shot
Pimblett believes that a victory over Chandler, which would bring his UFC record to 7-0, would put him close to a title opportunity.
Islam Makhachev, the current UFC lightweight champion, is widely considered the top pound-for-pound MMA fighter today. Pimblett, 30, aims to face him sometime next year.
“The plan is to defeat Michael Chandler, then fight again in Abu Dhabi in October,” Pimblett told TNT Sports.
“Hopefully, I will get to fight someone in the top four or five, and then I can request a title shot in 2026.”
In contrast, Chandler plans to call out Conor McGregor if he defeats Pimblett at UFC 314.
McGregor, a former two-division UFC champion, recently suggested retirement to explore a political career.
However, Chandler remains focused on a fight with MMA`s biggest star if McGregor returns to the UFC.
Rupert Hartwell