Pimblett’s Dominant Performance
Paddy Pimblett delivered a significant performance at UFC 329, securing a first-round submission victory over Benoît Saint Denis. The co-main event saw Pimblett apply a D’arce choke, ending the fight in under a minute. This win marks a crucial moment for Pimblett, positioning him for future opportunities in the lightweight division.
The fight began with Benoît Saint Denis attempting an early takedown, but Pimblett quickly countered, locking in the submission. This decisive action showcased Pimblett’s grappling prowess and resulted in one of the night’s most talked-about finishes. The victory is considered the biggest of Pimblett’s career, maintaining his momentum within the UFC.
This performance was particularly notable as it was Pimblett’s first fight since a previous bout where his undefeated UFC record was affected. He demonstrated his capabilities as a legitimate lightweight title contender, leaving a strong impression on both fans and fellow fighters.
Reactions from the Combat Sports Community
Paddy Pimblett’s swift victory garnered considerable attention from the combat sports community. Several professional fighters and commentators expressed their admiration for his performance. Featherweight veteran Billy Quarantillo described Pimblett as “the real deal” following the quick submission.
Retired stars Kenny Florian and Glover Teixeira, both recognized for their grappling expertise, also offered praise for “The Baddy.” Their comments highlighted the technical skill and effectiveness of Pimblett’s submission, underscoring the impact of his win on the night’s events.
The impressive nature of the victory led to discussions about Pimblett’s next potential opponent. UFC veteran Matt Brown suggested a matchup between Pimblett and former two-division champion Ilia Topuria, remarking that it would be “easiest matchmaking ever.” This indicates the high regard in which Pimblett’s current standing is held within the sport.
The event, headlined by the return of Conor McGregor in a rematch against Max Holloway, featured several other notable performances. King Green earned a Performance Of The Night bonus for a comeback victory against Terrance McKinney, stopping him in the final second of the opening round. McKinney had largely controlled the early part of the fight, but Green’s body attack and flurry of strikes led to the stoppage. Green now has four consecutive wins.
Other Highlights from UFC 329
Beyond the co-main event, UFC 329 featured other compelling matchups that kept the audience engaged. The Fight Of The Night honors went to Brandon Royval and Lone’er Kavanagh for their fast-paced and competitive bout. Both flyweights showcased their skills over three rounds, delivering an entertaining contest.
Royval ultimately secured a submission victory by locking in a rear-naked choke late in the fight. This performance further demonstrated why the flyweight division continues to be a source of exciting matchups and skilled athletes. The event provided numerous memorable moments for fans of combat sports.
The night saw several athletes strengthen their positions in the rankings and deliver impressive performances across various divisions. The main event, featuring Conor McGregor’s return against Max Holloway, was a highly anticipated rematch that contributed to the overall excitement of UFC 329, which took place on July 12, 2026.
Source: ufc.com