“Paddy Pimblett is the real deal” – Dana White after UFC 314

After a career-best win over Michael Chandler at UFC 314, Paddy Pimblett finally silenced his critics. UFC President Dana White praised the British star’s performance and confirmed: “He’s the real deal.”

Breakthrough victory over a proven veteran

Paddy “The Baddy” Pimblett stepped into the Octagon at UFC 314 with everything to prove. Matched against former title challenger Michael Chandler, the Liverpudlian faced his toughest opponent to date — and he delivered.

From the opening bell, Pimblett showcased a sharper, more composed striking game. He controlled the pace, avoided brawling exchanges, and in the third round, landed a flying knee that stunned Chandler. The follow-up ground-and-pound was enough to force the referee to stop the fight via TKO. It was a defining win — the kind that shifts public perception.

Dana White: “He’s the real deal”

During the post-fight press conference, UFC President Dana White had nothing but praise for Pimblett. For years, questions had swirled around whether “The Baddy” could handle elite-level opposition. White now believes that debate is over.

“Paddy Pimblett showed tonight that he is the real deal,” White said. “Beating Michael Chandler — and beating him the way that he did — I don’t know how you can doubt the kid anymore.”

White emphasized that the quality of the win matters. Chandler may have lost several recent fights, but he remains one of the most dangerous and entertaining fighters in the division. For Pimblett to stop him so convincingly was a serious statement.

The Arturo Gatti of the UFC?

In a revealing moment, White likened Chandler to legendary boxer Arturo Gatti — known for his toughness, durability, and non-stop action.

“Chandler is like our Arturo Gatti,” White explained. “Every time that guy goes in, you know you’re in for a good fight. You know it’s going to be a war, and you don’t know whether he’s going to win or lose.”

That comparison highlights just how much respect White still has for Chandler, and by extension, how meaningful Pimblett’s victory was.

From overhyped to undeniable: Pimblett’s evolution

Few fighters have been more scrutinized than Pimblett since entering the UFC in 2021. Critics labeled him as more hype than substance, citing his early UFC opponents as evidence he was being protected from top competition.

But according to Dana White, that criticism no longer holds weight.

“People keep counting him out, but he keeps looking better and better and better every time he shows up,” White said.

Indeed, Pimblett’s performance at UFC 314 showed real technical growth. He didn’t rely solely on brawling or his grappling — he adapted his style and imposed his will on a veteran fighter with elite experience.

What’s next? Top names on the horizon

Now standing at 6–0 in the UFC, Paddy Pimblett has earned the right to be in the conversation for top-ranked opponents. Dana White confirmed that bigger fights are coming.

“He’s in that spot now where he’s going to be fighting top guys,” White said.

While no official matchups have been announced, several potential contenders are being floated: Arman Tsarukyan, Mateusz Gamrot, Renato Moicano, Beneil Dariush. If Pimblett can win one more against a ranked opponent, a title eliminator — or even a title shot — could be next.

$50,000 Performance of the Night bonus

In addition to earning the biggest win of his career, Pimblett also received a $50,000 Performance of the Night bonus. Dana White announced the bonus during the post-fight press conference, recognizing Pimblett’s impressive finish. He shared the honor with Jean Silva, who also scored a notable victory earlier on the UFC 314 card.

Michael Chandler’s future in question?

Though the night belonged to Pimblett, questions about Chandler’s future surfaced. With five losses in his last six fights, the former Bellator champion’s position in the UFC may be shifting.

Still, White made it clear that Chandler remains valuable — not just because of wins and losses, but because of the excitement he brings to every fight.

“He’s always in the fight… You know it’s going to be a war,” White said.

That warrior mentality ensures that Chandler will likely continue to be a major figure in high-profile matchups, win or lose.

From hype to headline: Paddy Pimblett’s rise

Paddy Pimblett’s UFC career has been anything but quiet. With his larger-than-life personality, Liverpudlian accent, and outspoken confidence, he’s built a massive following. But until UFC 314, many still questioned whether his skills matched the attention he received.

Now, those questions have answers.

With a professional record of 22-3 and six straight UFC victories, including one over a former title challenger, Pimblett is finally proving he’s not just a marketable star — he’s a legitimate threat to the title.

White’s endorsement after UFC 314 is more than just lip service — it’s a signal that Pimblett is now in the mix with the elite.

Summary

Paddy Pimblett defeated Michael Chandler via TKO in Round 3 at UFC 314. Dana White: “He’s the real deal.” White confirmed Pimblett will now face top-tier opponents. Performance of the Night bonus: $50,000. Pimblett now stands at 6–0 in the UFC and 22–3 overall. Pimblett has always believed he belongs with the best. After UFC 314, Dana White and the rest of the MMA world may finally agree.

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