Following the most significant victory of his career, Paddy Pimblett has rapidly put on considerable weight, effectively moving up multiple weight classes in a short period. Known for his notable weight fluctuations between fights, especially after spending time in the United States, `Paddy The Baddy` continued this trend after his impressive finish of former Bellator champion Michael Chandler at UFC 314. He tipped the scales over 40lb heavier than his official weigh-in weight.
Despite being a naturally larger lightweight, Pimblett has consistently met the 156lb weight requirement throughout his career. However, he is known for quickly rehydrating post-weigh-in, reaching weights typical of much higher divisions. Currently, he is reportedly in the light-heavyweight range, far exceeding his competition weight.
Paddy Pimblett gains 43lb to become light-heavyweight in stunning transformation
Before even stepping into the octagon against Michael Chandler, Paddy Pimblett began his weight regain process, indulging heavily the night before the UFC 314 co-main event. After successfully cutting 14lb in just 14 hours to reach the 156lb limit, he started rehydrating with items like ice cream, pancakes, and other treats.
After securing a spectacular win, all dietary restrictions seemed to vanish. The British fighter quickly headed to a yacht party in Miami, then returned home to celebrate his children`s first birthday before flying to Dubai for a luxurious vacation with his wife Laura.
In a YouTube video documenting his weight gain, he showed himself enjoying various foods before stepping onto the scales. He weighed slightly under 91kg but stated his weight was an even 90kg (approximately 198lb), noting he was wearing clothes.
For context, this weight places him well above the middleweight limit and just two pounds shy of the championship weight Israel Adesanya made for his light-heavyweight title bout against Jan Blachowicz in March 2021.
Fans left amazed by Paddy Pimblett’s weight gain following UFC 314
Pimblett`s significant weight fluctuations have frequently been a point of discussion among fight analysts and fans since his rise to prominence in the UFC. In the past, he has even reached over 205lb, putting him in heavyweight territory, although he hasn`t gone to that extreme recently.
He is often compared to former boxing star Ricky Hatton, who earned the nickname “Ricky Fatton” during his prime for his dramatic weight gains between fights. Reacting to Pimblett`s latest weight increase, one fan commented on X (formerly Twitter): Reminds me of Ricky Hatton and eventually it takes its toll.
Other fans humorously suggested he might be more suited for alternative careers like a cooking show or competitive eating. One person wrote: Paddy has a future outside of fighting maybe a food show.
Another recommended: He should start a cooking show like Volk because he actually enjoys food and it doesn’t affect him come fight day.
Jack Thornley