UFC lightweight fighter Paddy Pimblett addressed a recent verbal dispute with fellow fighter Dan Hooker, stating that Hooker's comments crossed a line.
Origin of the Dispute
The conflict began when Pimblett commented on Hooker's grappling ability in an interview, saying, "Dan Hooker couldn't grapple a f*cking rapist off his ma." Hooker responded by calling out Pimblett and referencing "Ricky," a deceased friend of Pimblett's.
Pimblett's Stance on Hooker's Comments
Pimblett stated that he never spoke negatively about Hooker's mother. He found Hooker's mention of his deceased friend, who cannot defend himself, to be inappropriate. Pimblett mentioned that his friend's family contacted him regarding the comment. He expressed surprise that while his own comments were condemned, Hooker's statement about a deceased individual was not widely criticized.
Pimblett asserted that his initial comment was an analogy to describe Hooker's grappling skills and was not intended as an insult to Hooker's mother. He stated that Hooker "mentioned a dead person and basically tried to say it was fault that he killed himself, saying that I'm not a good friend," which Pimblett considers "below the belt."
Views on Dan Hooker and Upcoming Fight
Pimblett described Hooker as being "beneath me now," particularly if Pimblett wins his upcoming title. He noted Hooker's record of 5-5 in his last ten fights and compared him unfavorably to Michael Chandler, who defeated Hooker.
Pimblett is scheduled to fight Justin Gaethje for an interim lightweight title at UFC 324.
Comments on Arman Tsarukyan
Pimblett also commented on Arman Tsarukyan, stating that Tsarukyan was "not promised a title shot" and had "brought it all on himself" for not securing a title opportunity. He attributed this to actions such as turning down fights, headbutting opponents at weigh-ins, and punching fans. Pimblett suggested Tsarukyan's behavior stems from having "daddy's money behind him" and believing he can avoid consequences.