Paddy “the Baddy” Pimblett has revealed the sad reason he will not fight on the upcoming UFC White House card on US President Donald Trump’s birthday.
Pimblett, who is on a seven-fight UFC win streak, is looking to win the interim UFC lightweight title against Justin Gaethje at UFC 324 in Las Vegas on Sunday (January 25).
The Liverpudlian is a fan favourite both in the UK and the States, with supporters taking to his eccentric personality and hairstyle, even bringing bright blonde wigs to arenas where he fights.
If he overcomes 37-year-old Gaethje, he will likely be linked with a bout for the undisputed title against champion Ilia Topuria, who is currently taking a break from competing to deal with issues in his personal life.
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The pair have been embroiled in a long-running feud for several years and are destined to cross paths at some stage.
But the proposed bout will certainly not be happening at UFC White House. The event will take place on the South Lawn of the White House on June 14 – Trump’s 80th birthday.
The card has yet to be confirmed, but several big names – including Conor McGregor and Jon Jones - have been linked with appearing on it.
But there’s one particular reason Pimblett will not be walking out in front of the US President on June 14.
Speaking to SPORTbible on behalf of Casino Guru, the lightweight explained: “I haven't spoken to anyone about the White House. I don't plan on fighting on it.
“People keep asking me if I want to fight on it and stuff, but it'll be an event where only a certain amount of people can go, and all that stuff like that.
“I have so many friends and family that come and watch me fight, so many fans that want to come and watch me fight. I couldn't do that to them. I couldn't fight somewhere where they wouldn't be allowed to go.
“It’s just something that I haven't even thought about, even though everyone asks me about it. I haven't even thought about fighting on that card, to be honest.”
The 31-year-old former Cage Warriors champ then named three active UFC stars whom he’d like to fight if Topuria is not available next.
Pimblett added: “Arman Tsarukyan, obviously, is the uncrowned number one contender and would be near the top of the list.
“The winner of Max Holloway v Charles Oliveira would definitely interest me because they're two legends of the game, two more fighters who, for years, I’ve been watching fight.
“Who else is there? They're the main ones at the minute. Arman, Ilia, and Max, they're the ones I would say you'd have to think about more than anyone.”
Topics: Paddy Pimblett, UFC, MMA, Donald Trump, Justin Gaethje, Spotlight
Luke Davies