Paddy Pimblett Sparks Controversy by Holding Choke Too Long on Denis Frimpong

Paddy Pimblett

Paddy Pimblett Sparks Controversy by Holding Choke Too Long on Denis Frimpong

Paddy Pimblett, also known as "The Baddy," is no stranger to drama both inside and outside the cage. But this time, his recent actions during a gym session have sparked a heated debate in the MMA and grappling communities. A video of Pimblett holding a rear naked choke (RNC) on fellow fighter and Oktagon MMA alumnus Denis Frimpong has gone viral, drawing criticism from fans and professionals alike.

A Feud That Boiled Over

The tension between Pimblett and Frimpong has been simmering online for months, with both fighters trading barbs on social media. The situation escalated when Frimpong mocked Pimblett's fitness in response to a fan's question about Paddy's potential appearance at UFC London. "He won't be fit for the Vegas event, let alone the London one," Frimpong jabbed, referencing Pimblett's well-documented post-fight weight fluctuations.

This war of words culminated in a heated gym encounter where the two finally faced off on the mats. As expected, Pimblett’s vast experience gave him the upper hand, but what unfolded shocked everyone. After securing a rear naked choke, Pimblett continued to hold the submission despite Frimpong’s visible and repeated taps.

The gym erupted in chaos, with bystanders rushing to separate the fighters as tempers flared. The incident has since sparked a firestorm of reactions across the MMA world.

Backlash from the Grappling Community

The grappling community has not taken kindly to Pimblett's actions. Holding a submission after a tap is widely regarded as a violation of the sport's unwritten code of respect. While grappling is inherently competitive, protecting training partners and opponents from unnecessary harm is paramount.

Some have called Pimblett’s actions dangerous and unsportsmanlike, while others see it as another example of his fiery personality. Fans have taken to social media to debate whether this was a justified response to Frimpong’s trash talk or an unacceptable display of poor sportsmanship.

One prominent grappler weighed in:

“No matter the beef, you let go when they tap. This is basic gym etiquette. Paddy crossed a line.”

On the other hand, some fans defend Pimblett, claiming Frimpong’s months of antagonizing comments brought this on himself.

Paddy Pimblett’s Response

Pimblett, who thrives on controversy, has yet to issue a formal apology. Instead, he doubled down, posting on Instagram:

“Don’t talk if you can’t back it up. Simple.”

Whether his response will help or hurt his reputation remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—Pimblett’s next move will be under intense scrutiny.

A Return to the Octagon?

Despite the controversy, Pimblett has reportedly been preparing for a return to the UFC. Rumors suggest he has already signed a fight contract, with UFC London on March 22 as the likely venue. Fans are eager to see if "The Baddy" can put this drama behind him and focus on what he does best: delivering thrilling performances in the cage.

As for Denis Frimpong, he has continued to stoke the flames on social media, vowing to “get even” with Pimblett. Whether this feud ends here or spills over into future encounters remains to be seen.

The Verdict

Paddy Pimblett’s larger-than-life persona has always been a magnet for attention, but this incident may have crossed a line. While fans love the chaos he brings, moments like this highlight the importance of maintaining professionalism—even in heated situations.

Will this controversy fuel his fire heading into UFC London, or will it tarnish his reputation further? Only time will tell, but for now, Pimblett remains one of the most polarizing figures in MMA.