Paddy Pimblett is returning to the Octagon at UFC 329 with another massive lightweight fight ahead of him, but according to former UFC champion Michael Bisping, this could be one of the biggest risks of his entire career.
After losing a hard-fought interim title clash against Justin Gaethje, Pimblett now faces dangerous French contender Benoit Saint Denis during International Fight Week in Las Vegas.
Bisping Warns Saint Denis Is “No Joke”
While discussing the matchup on his channel, Bisping explained why he believes Saint Denis presents serious problems for Pimblett both on the feet and on the ground:
“Benoit Saint Denis fighting out of Paris, this man is no joke.”
“Paddy Pimblett has got tremendous grappling as we know, but so does Benoit Saint Denis.”
Bisping also pointed to the Frenchman’s aggression and finishing ability as major dangers heading into UFC 329.
“This guy on the ground is extremely dangerous, but also on the feet, this man is a knockout machine.”
Saint Denis may have suffered losses against Dustin Poirier and Renato Moicano, but he has since bounced back with impressive wins over Beneil Dariush and Dan Hooker. Bisping believes those recent performances prove Saint Denis is still one of the division’s most dangerous contenders.
Watch Michael’s full take here
Pimblett Has Little Choice But to Move Forward
Despite the risk, Bisping understands why Pimblett accepted the fight. At No. 6 in the rankings, Pimblett cannot afford to take a step backward if he wants another run at the title picture.
Saint Denis currently sits directly ahead of him at No. 5, making the matchup one of the few logical options available.
“When you get into those rankings, when you get into those deep waters, you are swimming with sharks. It’s as simple as that.”
Bisping also noted that most of the lightweight division’s biggest names are already tied up in other fights, including the expected showdown between Ilia Topuria and Gaethje at the White House UFC event.
A Win at UFC 329 Could Push Pimblett Toward Topuria
That leaves Pimblett in a position where dangerous matchups are unavoidable if he wants to stay near the top. A loss could put him out of title contention permanently. He currently sits at +150 odds, at most UFC betting sites.
Still, if Pimblett defeats Saint Denis in convincing fashion, it could open the door for an even bigger fight next. Bisping pointed out the long-running tension between Pimblett and Topuria, who famously clashed backstage years ago before nearly fighting inside the hotel. That tension sells fights, and could help Paddy get a title shot if he wins.
“And if Paddy Pimblett can get through Benoit Saint Denis, he just might be the next guy.”
For now, though, Pimblett first has to deal with one of the most aggressive and unpredictable fighters in the lightweight division.