Paddy Pimblett Discusses Divorce, Discontent, and Departure from UK
Paddy Pimblett is gearing up for a pivotal moment in his career at UFC 324. This weekend, the 31-year-old fighter will face Justin Gaethje for the interim lightweight title in Las Vegas. Pimblett has maintained an impressive record since his UFC debut in 2021, currently enjoying a seven-fight win streak.
Paddy Pimblett’s Journey to UFC 324
His first title opportunity came after a victory over Michael Chandler via TKO in April 2024. This matchup arose as reigning champion Ilia Topuria announced a break from competition for personal reasons.
Personal Life and Family
- Pimblett and Laura Gregory married in May 2023.
- The couple became engaged during a holiday in Thailand in early 2020.
- They welcomed twin daughters in April 2024.
Despite their long history together, Laura has shared that their relationship has faced its challenges. On a recent episode of the Tea Time with Livvy podcast, she stated, “God, we’ve split up more times than I count.” This candor highlights the complexities of being married to a rising sports star.
Challenges of Fame
In her podcast appearance, Laura discussed the difficulties of maintaining a relationship under public scrutiny. She acknowledged the potential for unhappiness in such a lifestyle. “I’ve shut so many people off from my life because I just don’t trust no one,” she explained, emphasizing the importance of having a close-knit circle.
Pimblett’s Future in the UFC
Pimblett, who hails from Liverpool and spent his formative years in Huyton, expressed concerns about his fighting future in the UK. He last appeared in front of a hometown crowd in July 2024 and believes that most of his upcoming fights will be in the United States.
“I think the odds are going lower and lower,” he remarked in an interview. He views the possibility of fighting at Anfield as a dream scenario, mentioning that conversations have taken place with the club’s management about hosting a UFC event there. However, he recognizes that the ultimate decision lies with the UFC organization.
As he prepares for UFC 324, Paddy Pimblett remains focused on his career, personal life, and the pressures of fame. His journey exemplifies the ever-evolving dynamics of a professional athlete balancing ambition with family life.