Pimblett climbs rankings after dominant UFC 329 win

Paddy Pimblett moves up to No.5 after his statement victory over Benoît Saint-Denis and keeps his title dream alive.

Paddy Pimblett has climbed four spots in the new UFC Meta rankings following his impressive victory over Benoît Saint Denis. Before the fight, his opponent Benoît Saint Denis was ranked 5th, and Paddy Pimblett was ranked 9th.

This is because Paddy Pimblett had slipped from 6th to 9th place after the Meta rankings were introduced. These rankings focus more on a fighter’s activity. Now, however, thanks to his strong victory, he has climbed to the highest position he has ever achieved. At the same time, Benoît Saint Denis has fallen three spots to 8th place.

Paddy Pimblett is very relieved about his new position in the rankings. Had he not won this fight, he would likely have fallen quite far down in the rankings and, by his own admission, would have even considered ending his career.

"About four or five weeks ago, I turned to [my coach] Paul and I was like, ‘Listen, if I don’t win this fight, what’s the point in fighting anymore? I might as well retire.'

he said in an interview with the “The About Last Fight” podcast.

Now, however, he’s quite relieved and wants to keep going just as he has been. He’s planning big fights in the future and wants to finally fulfill his dream of winning the title. With his standing in the rankings and beyond, Paddy Pimblett has put himself in a very good position. He’s definitely considered a title contender and could possibly get his shot at the title in the future. The only question is who he’ll face and how he’ll fare against them. No specific opponent has been announced yet, but perhaps we won’t have to wait much longer.

I don't think 5th place will be the end of the road for Paddy Pimblett. I've said it before, but I'm happy to say it again. I thought his performance against Benoît Saint Denis was very strong, and I think if he stays in this kind of form, he could have a realistic shot at the title.