All the way to the top, folks. @PaulHughesMMA just went full beast mode at #CW170’s co-main event. Check it out! pic.twitter.com/VzidYjPmWi – Cage Warriors, April 8, 2024.
So, here’s the scoop. Paul Hughes, that top prospect who’s now a free agent, is eyeing a showdown with Paddy Pimblett. Yeah, you heard it right.
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Hughes wrapped up his stint with Cage Warriors by knocking Fabiano Silva into next week. This was at Cage Warriors 170, April 6. His time there? Shared with Pimblett, who jetted off to the UFC in 2021.
Both champs, but their paths? Never crossed. Pimblett bumped up to 155 pounds back in ’18. Hughes followed suit last year, leaving his featherweight title behind.
Hughes hit up Instagram recently, fishing for what’s next. A fan pitched a UFC face-off with “The Baddy.” Hughes? He’s all in. “I’d beat him with one hand. Absolute s—ebag.”
On “The MMA Hour,” Hughes didn’t mince words about Pimblett. “He’s a s—ebag, man. Always has been since Cage Warriors,” he said. “No fake beefs for me, but this? It’s legit. His UFC fights? Very, very poor. I stand by what I said.”
Pimblett’s riding high in the UFC, undefeated in five. Just clinched a win over Tony Ferguson at UFC 296 this December.
But for Paul? It’s not all about the UFC. He’s looking beyond, chasing greatness with manager Tim Simpson by his side.
“I had to really think about what I want,” Hughes shared. “Fame? Clout? Being a UFC fighter? Nah, not for me. I just turned 27. I’ve had my big moments. Now? It’s about being the best fighter on the planet. And I can do that anywhere. It’s about getting what I’m worth.”