In the ever-evolving world of mixed martial arts, the Unified Rules have seen several amendments since their inception in 2000. The most recent change came just last year with the legalization of 12-to-6 elbows against grounded opponents. Now, UFC lightweight contender Paddy Pimblett is calling for further adjustments to the rules, specifically targeting strikes on downed opponents.
Pimblett, who is set to challenge former interim champion Justin Gaethje for the interim lightweight title at UFC 324 on January 24 in Las Vegas, expressed his desire to see soccer kicks and knees to the head of grounded opponents become legal. Speaking on Tom Aspinall’s YouTube channel, Pimblett outlined his vision for a revised ruleset that mirrors the old PRIDE FC regulations, albeit with some modifications.
‘I just think you should be able to – I don’t agree with stomping because your head’s got no way to go. But a soccer kick where someone’s like sitting in guard and you can move the legs and kick them there,’ Pimblett explained. He also advocated for the legalization of knees to the head of grounded opponents, citing the example of Mark Kerr’s infamous ‘sleeper hold’ technique.
Pimblett’s bold stance on rule changes comes as he prepares for what is arguably the biggest fight of his career. A victory over Gaethje would not only secure him the interim title but also potentially set him up for a showdown with featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski. Pimblett hinted at this possibility, stating that a win against Gaethje could very well lead to a crossover bout with Volkanovski.
‘I think if I win and he wins, and I get upgraded to undisputed champ, it wouldn’t surprise me if he thinks that’s the perfect opportunity to win the Lightweight belt. I don’t want to fight Volk – I proper like Volk – but he’s probably looking at it like, ‘That’s my best chance to become Lightweight champion: beating Paddy,’ Pimblett said.
As the MMA community eagerly anticipates UFC 324, Pimblett’s call for rule changes adds an extra layer of intrigue to the already highly anticipated event. Whether his advocacy for altered regulations gains traction remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Pimblett’s fearless approach to the sport both inside and outside the Octagon continues to captivate fans worldwide.
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