Renato Moicano, albeit reluctantly, has offered a sliver of respect to Paddy Pimblett following the Brit's latest appearance in the Octagon.
"The Baddy" has generated a whirlwind of fanfare throughout his ascent in the UFC, catching the attention of many fellow contenders. Among those eager to test him in the Octagon, Moicano stands out. The two have been trading barbs on social media for some time now and have openly expressed a desire to settle the score with their fists.
Pimblett delivered one of his finest performances to date, securing a technical submission victory over King Green at UFC 304 this past July, officially entering the UFC 155-pound rankings.
The 29-year-old Scouser's recent triumph not only shut down his critics but also shifted "Money" Moicano's stance toward him...
Moicano Admits Pimblett Fight Could Be A 'Tougher Matchup'
During In a recent interview with MMAFightingonSBN, Moicano was asked to share his thoughts on Pimblett. The Brazilian veteran conceded that he was truly impressed by "The Baddy's" showing against Green, even going as far as to predict that Pimblett would pose a more challenging matchup than most of the other lightweights if they were to face off in the Octagon.
I was very impressed. I think after the Bobby Green fight, Paddy Pimblett is a tougher matchup than Dan Hooker," Moicano said. "Back in the day, I would’ve been crazy to say that, but right now, we saw what Dan Hooker did to Mateusz Gamrot. He got caught many, many times in the first round. It was a close fight. I don’t think he did win, but you see the way Paddy Pimblett finished Bobby Green, and Bobby Green is not an easy guy to submit. The way he did so, props to Paddy Pimblett.
"Money" further added that although he previously questioned Pimblett's abilities, he's now developed a newfound respect for him.
I was one of the doubters. But he did great, and he did a great job against Bobby Green. He deserves some respect. Not much but some respect.
Before Moicano can set his sights on Pimblett, he first has to overcome the challenge of Benoît Saint Denis this weekend in the main event of UFC Fight Night Paris, taking place at the Accor Arena in France.
Following his UFC 304 victory, Pimblett made it clear he has his eyes set on the winner of the Moicano vs. Saint Denis bout, with a particular focus on "Money" as his next potential opponent.