Paddy Pimblett’s biggest career win at UFC 314 has fueled speculation about who’s next. Coming off a dominant third-round TKO over Michael Chandler, Pimblett has now strung together seven consecutive victories.
With “The Baddy” making a statement in his last outing, former two-division UFC champion Henry Cejudo has thrown his hat into the matchmaking ring.
Henry Cejudo Sees High-Stakes Options for Paddy Pimblett’s Next Bout
Paddy Pimblett outclassed Michael Chandler in every department at UFC 314, showcasing sharper striking, effective grappling, and a ruthless finishing instinct that has earned him a spot among the division’s elite.
With that momentum, Henry Cejudo believes it’s time for the Scouser to level up — and he has a few high-profile names in mind.
“Charles Oliveira,” Cejudo began, citing Pimblett’s own post-fight comments. “This is the first name that came out of Paddy’s mouth. He wants Charles Oliveira. There’s something Paddy sees there.”
Cejudo questioned whether Pimblett’s grappling could hold its own against UFC’s most prolific submission artist, adding intrigue to the potential bout.
The Olympic gold medalist didn’t stop there. He also floated Ilia Topuria as an opponent, pointing to past tension between the two fighters.
“These guys already had beef. People thought that a fight was going to happen before… Now is the time,” Cejudo said. While acknowledging Topuria’s elite status, he argued that even a loss wouldn’t significantly hurt Pimblett’s rising stock. “He doesn’t lose that star power — it’s still there.”
However, the most intriguing suggestion came when Cejudo suggested a clash with Conor McGregor.
“If I’m Paddy, I go after Conor McGregor,” Cejudo added. If I’m ‘Paddy The Baddy’, I would most likely fight (Conor McGregor) not just based on popularity, not just based on money, but also stylistically. This is the fight to make. (Pimbeltt) can finally entice (McGregor) to come out, they do at the O2 Arena (in London). They do it at one of the biggest arenas in all of United Kingdom… It would be a great passing of the torch.”
Cejudo also added that such a matchup would be a massive event and could also set up the winner for a title shot.
Paddy Pimblett Wants a Hollywood Debut — but Better Than Conor McGregor
While his fighting ambitions remain a priority, Pimblett is also eyeing opportunities outside the Octagon. In a recent appearance on Bruce Buffer’s “It’s Time” podcast, the lightweight contender revealed he’s long dreamed of moving to Hollywood.
“I’ve always said I want to end up in films or series and stuff like that,” Pimblett said. But he’s not content with just a cameo — he wants to outperform the other fighters-turned-actors who have made the jump, most notably Conor McGregor.
“I’d definitely be a better actor than Conor if you know what I mean,” he quipped. “I’d be in a serious role, not like just playing a weird version of myself.”
“The Hollywood Baddie?!” @PaddyTheBaddy tells @brucebuffer he thinks he could be headed to the silver screen someday. A new “IT’S TIME!” Is available now on YouTube. pic.twitter.com/FBKJlUIpPe
— TJ De Santis (@TJDeSantis) April 19, 2025
McGregor appeared in the 2024 remake of Road House alongside Jake Gyllenhaal, playing a mercenary character named Knox.
While the film drew mixed reviews, many fans felt McGregor’s character was essentially an exaggerated version of his own personality. Pimblett, by contrast, says he’s aiming to show true range and acting chops if he ever makes the leap.