Brendan Schaub Predicts Pimblett as UFC’s Next Superstar
Brendan Schaub, former UFC heavyweight and popular MMA analyst, has ignited fresh debate over the rise of Paddy “The Baddy” Pimblett, suggesting that the charismatic fighter could become the global face of the UFC. Speaking on his podcast The Fighter and The Kid on April 14, 2025, Schaub made the bold claim that Pimblett has the star power to surpass former two-division champion Conor McGregor in popularity.
Paddy has everything you need to carry the UFC brand worldwide,” Schaub stated. He’s got the charisma, the fighting style, and the ability to connect with fans in a way very few fighters can. McGregor set the blueprint, but Paddy is evolving it.”
Pimblett’s latest triumph at UFC 314, held at the Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida, on April 13, 2025, saw him defeat Michael Chandler in a high-stakes lightweight clash. His dominant third-round TKO victory over Chandler propelled him into the Top 10 of the UFC lightweight rankings, further solidifying his status as one of the promotion’s fastest-rising stars.
The comparisons to McGregor stem not only from Pimblett’s fighting ability but also his larger-than-life persona. From his outspoken interviews to his undeniable crowd appeal, Pimblett possesses many of the same traits that helped McGregor revolutionize the sport.
However, some analysts argue that Pimblett still has significant hurdles ahead before he can truly rival McGregor’s legacy. McGregor’s rise was fueled by historic bouts against the likes of Jose Aldo, Nate Diaz, Eddie Alvarez, and Khabib Nurmagomedov, along with a record-breaking boxing showdown with Floyd Mayweather. Pimblett has yet to headline a pay-per-view or face a reigning champion.
Still, Schaub believes Pimblett’s trajectory suggests superstardom is inevitable. With rumored fights against Ilia Topuria, Charles Oliveira, and Justin Gaethje looming, the Liverpool native may soon have the opportunity to solidify himself as the UFC’s next global icon.
As UFC President Dana White considers the next steps for Pimblett, the MMA world watches closely to see whether Schaub’s prediction will materialize. The question remains—can Pimblett truly surpass McGregor, or is he simply the latest fan-favorite in an ever-changing sport?
