Paddy Pimblett isn't the only UFC star keen to raise awareness for mental health.
Pimblett's upcoming opponent is also onboard and is eager to join forces with 'The Baddy' in a bid to spread the message surrounding suicide prevention.
It was recently announced that MMA fan favourite Pimblett would be taking on Jared Gordon at UFC 282 in Las Vegas.
But instead of jarring back-and-forth on social media ahead of their bout, Gordon has registered his interest in working alongside Paddy to shine a spotlight on a very important topic.
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“He preaches for mental health; I preach for mental health,” Gordon told MMA Junkie.
“I think together we could raise awareness for mental health. He recently lost his friend to suicide. I lost my best friend, who was a pro fighter, as well to suicide a little over a year ago. Literally my best friend. And we share common things in our lives, and I think together we could do something to raise awareness instead of just fighting. But in the meantime, we can just entertain the fans, put on a good fight, make some money, better ourselves, and help other people.”
We're used to seeing rival fighters engage in some often fiery pre-fight trash talk, so this is a very refreshing approach.
Fair play to him.
As for Pimblett, he made headlines around the world back in July following his victory at UFC London when he made a passionate plea urging people to speak up about their struggles.
During his octagon interview, a visibly-emotional Pimblett fought back the tears as he opened up about losing a dear friend to suicide in the weeks leading up to the fight.
"I woke up on Friday morning at 4am to a message that one my friends back home had killed themselves. This was five hours before my weigh-in," he said.
"So Ricky lad, that’s for you. There's a stigma in this world that men can’t talk.
"Listen, if you're a man and you've got weight on your shoulders and you think the only way you can solve it is by killing yourself, please speak to someone. Speak to anyone.
"I know I would rather have my mate cry on my shoulder than go to his funeral next week. So please, let's get rid of this stigma. Men, start talking."
Paddy's message was clearly heard too.
Incredibly, in the wake of UFC London, it was revealed that the number of men attending mental health clubs had increased massively following the heartfelt speech.
Powerful stuff.
Topics: Australia, Paddy Pimblett, UFC, MMA
Max Sherry