Paddy Pimblett delivered a notable performance at UFC 329, achieving a submission victory over Benoît Saint Denis in 52 seconds. This win marks a significant moment for Pimblett, who was looking to rebound from his first loss since 2018. The quick finish occurred via D’Arce choke, making it the second-fastest D’Arce choke submission in UFC history, just behind Kyle Daukaus’ 50-second record.
Pimblett’s victory was a highlight of the night, which also featured Conor McGregor’s return to the Octagon in a rematch with Max Holloway. The event showcased several impressive performances, with Pimblett’s quick submission earning him a Performance Of The Night bonus.
Pimblett’s Return to Form
The bout began with Saint Denis attempting a high kick and then a takedown just nine seconds into the fight. Pimblett countered with a guillotine, and as the two grappled, he secured the D’Arce choke, preventing Saint Denis from escaping. Pimblett expressed confidence after the fight, stating, “Sub of the year, b****es. I knew he was out. My man was face-down eating canvas.”
This win was particularly cathartic for Pimblett, whose momentum had been disrupted in January after a fight against now-UFC lightweight champion Justin Gaethje for the interim belt. That previous bout, which went five rounds, had led to questions about Pimblett’s elite status, especially when considered against the quality of opposition in his prior nine-fight win streak. Following his victory over Saint Denis, Pimblett challenged his critics, saying, “Everyone said I was finished because I got beat by Gaethje. What now? Am I finished? Who wants it next? I’ll beat Ilia. I’ll rematch Justin. I’ll fight Conor [McGregor] or Max [Holloway]. I don’t give a f***. Give me anyone, and I’ll punch their f***ing head in.”
The performance garnered significant attention from fellow fighters and pundits. Featherweight veteran Billy Quarantillo commented on social media, “Quick submission Paddy is the real deal.” Retired stars Kenny Florian and Glover Teixeira also praised Pimblett’s grappling skills. UFC veteran Matt Brown suggested a potential matchup, writing, “Ilia vs. Paddy next? Easiest matchmaking ever right?”
Other Notable Performances at UFC 329
Beyond Pimblett’s quick finish, UFC 329 featured other compelling matchups and bonus-earning performances. King Green also received a Performance Of The Night bonus for a comeback victory against Terrance McKinney. McKinney initially controlled much of the fight, but Green remained composed, turning the tide with a body attack and a flurry of strikes that led to a stoppage in the final second of the opening round. Green now has four straight wins.
The Fight Of The Night honours went to Brandon Royval and Lone’er Kavanagh for their fast-paced, back-and-forth battle. Both flyweights had moments of dominance across three entertaining rounds. Royval ultimately secured a submission victory with a rear-naked choke late in the fight. This performance further highlighted the excitement within the flyweight division.
Pimblett concluded his post-fight interview by singing a tribute to late Liverpool star Diogo Jota and his brother Andres, adding a personal touch to his celebratory moment. His win over Saint Denis was his 10th in his last 11 appearances, solidifying his position as a lightweight contender.
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Source: sports.yahoo.com
Chloe Tremblay is the Sports Reporter at CasinoNews, covering basketball, tennis and athletics with nine years of reporting experience. She reported on the Raptors' rise and two Olympic cycles. She holds a degree in Journalism from Concordia University. Based in Montreal, she plays recreational basketball and follows track athletics. “The best stories come from the athletes everyone overlooks.”
