Paddy Pimblett ‘knocked out’ in special boxing match ahead of UFC 324 title fight
Paddy Pimblett made someone’s dream come true at a disability boxing show.
The UFC lightweight contender is fast approaching his first title shot on MMA’s biggest stage, having remained unbeaten since signing for the promotion back in 2021.
Pimblett’s UFC 324 main event against Justin Gaethje for the interim lightweight title has divided opinion, with many blasting the decision to grant ‘The Baddy’ an opportunity over Arman Tsarukyan.
While that has only increased the Scouser’s status as a polarizing figure in MMA, nobody will be critical of Pimblett’s recent exploits away from the cage, as he completed a heartwarming side quest inside the ring…
Paddy Pimblett nobly ‘loses’ boxing match against man with Down syndrome
Pimblett returned to action for the first time since finishing Michael Chandler at UFC 314 this past April, but not inside the cage.
‘The Baddy’ made an appearance at a disability boxing show staged at The Dome at Grand Central Hall in Liverpool by the No Limits gym on Wednesday.
The gym has hosted similar events in the past, with former WBA interim lightweight champion Derry Mathews being challenged by George Goetzee in 2017.
Before that show, Mathews set up a boxing class to help people with disabilities to keep fit. He created a ‘disability boxing squad’ including people with learning disabilities, cerebral palsy, autism, ADHD, mental health issues, and Spina Bifida.
On December 3, it was Pimblett’s turn to cross paths with Goetzee, a fighter with Down syndrome who is nicknamed ‘GGG’ in reference to legendary boxer Gennadiy Golovkin.
Pimblett helped make Goetzee’s dream come true once again, going back and forth with him in the ring for a couple of rounds before getting playfully knocked out by ‘GGG’.
The lightweight contender’s classy gesture comes after Jailton Almeida did something similar in Brazil in early 2024, when the heavyweight lost a charity bout by way of submission against a man with Down syndrome.
Paddy Pimblett praised for his appearance at disability boxing show
Pimblett’s heartwarming gesture was received positively when it was announced by No Limits Boxing Club on social media.
In a comments section that saw a number of correct predictions that ‘GGG’ would knock out ‘The Baddy’, the UFC star was praised for his appearance.
“Brilliant this.”
“Class.”
“How cool!”
“People on about Paddy vs Gaethje, see THIS is the real fight right here.”
Pimblett’s focus will now turn to his chance to quickly return to winning ways, when he looks to have UFC gold wrapped around his waist for the very first time against another hard-hitter in Gaethje.
