Paddy “The Baddy” Pimblett didn’t shy away from controversy backstage at the M&S Bank Arena, boldly predicting Dana White would “spark out” Eddie Hearn in their much-discussed fantasy clash. The Liverpool lightweight, fresh from Molly McCann’s homecoming win, is firmly in the corner of the UFC president as the high-stakes feud with Matchroom Boxing’s boss heats up.
Pimblett’s ringside revelations during McCann’s victory
Moments after watching his close friend Molly McCann claim a standout boxing win, Pimblett sat alongside Eddie Hearn at a Matchroom show before heading backstage with IFL TV. Unprompted, he made it crystal clear where his loyalties lie in the Dana White vs Eddie Hearn saga. “Dana’s my boss, he’d spark him out,” Pimblett said, highlighting the rivalry between the UFC chief and the boxing promoter.
Business battles: UFC and Zuffa Boxing collide
The dispute between White and Hearn has escalated since the UFC boss unveiled Zuffa Boxing and signed Conor Benn to a lucrative deal. Hearn claims White pulled out of their proposed showdown, but White remains unbowed. Pimblett pointed out the irony that both men, aged 56 and 46 respectively, would likely pocket more for a one-off fight than many of their fighters earn under their own promotions.
Feud fallout and fighter pay debate
Pimblett’s headline-grabbing comments underscore wider questions about fighter remuneration in both MMA and boxing. If White and Hearn can secure multimillion-dollar paydays for themselves, what does that mean for UFC athletes and Matchroom’s boxers? The lightweight star’s remarks have reignited discussions around pay parity and the value promoters place on their talent.
While the clowning between Dana White and Eddie Hearn shows no signs of stopping, Paddy Pimblett’s backing adds another twist to the narrative, reminding fans that loyalties run deep within the UFC ranks.
FAQ
Will the Dana White vs Eddie Hearn fight happen?
Despite persistent talk, both sides suggest the bout is off the table. Hearn claims White backed out, while White remains tight-lipped, making a crossover fight increasingly unlikely.
What exactly did Paddy Pimblett say?
Pimblett insisted Dana White would “spark out” Eddie Hearn, backing his boss to deliver a knockout, and mocked the idea of two promoters out-earning professional fighters.
How does this affect UFC fighters?
The spat highlights ongoing concerns over fighter pay in the UFC. Pimblett’s comments serve as a reminder that many athletes feel underpaid compared to the headline sums promised to promoters.
What’s next for Paddy Pimblett?
Pimblett is set to return to Octagon action later this year. Fans can expect more outspoken opinions from the Liverpool native as he continues to climb the UFC lightweight rankings.