UFC lightweight contender Paddy Pimblett has been forced to abandon a high-profile trip to Miami to support Anthony Joshua in his upcoming fight against Jake Paul.
UFC Title Shot Forces Change of Plans
The Liverpool fighter, known as 'The Baddy', was scheduled to travel to the United States to be part of Joshua's fight week activities ahead of the December 19 showdown. However, a major career opportunity has taken priority.
Pimblett's plans were upended after the UFC announced he will challenge Justin Gaethje for the interim lightweight title next month. With his own fight camp now overlapping, the Scouser confirmed the Miami trip is no longer feasible.
Under Armour Links and Missed Mind Games
Pimblett revealed his original intention was to attend the event through his sponsorship deal with Under Armour, which he shares with Joshua. The pair recently filmed promotional content together for the brand.
"I was going to actually go and be part of like the last week of the camp," Pimblett told Coin Poker. "I was literally going to go and walk out with AJ and do bits for him and try and wind Jake Paul up."
The UFC star has a history of trading verbal jabs with the Paul brothers, and Logan Paul has previously called for a fight with him.
Pimblett's Confident Prediction for the Main Event
Despite missing the event, Pimblett was clear in his prediction for the heavyweight clash. He fully expects his fellow Briton to dominate the YouTube star-turned-boxer.
"AJ comes out there and knocks him out. There's no way Jake Paul can hang with AJ," Pimblett stated. "He’s a former unified world champion. Unless AJ takes it easy on him, Jake Paul is getting knocked out in the first three rounds."
The fight marks Joshua's return after over a year out of the ring, following a knockout loss to Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in front of 95,000 fans. The bout with Paul will be contested over eight three-minute rounds with 10oz gloves, and the result will go on both men's professional records.
Anthony Joshua vs Jake Paul takes place in Miami on Saturday, December 19. The main event ring walks are expected around 11pm local time (4am UK time), with the entire event streaming live on Netflix.
