Paddy Pimblett loses his temper after rival's response to provocation: 'Complete rubbish'

Paddy Pimblett focused before fighting in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC

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The year 2026 has barely begun, but Paddy Pimblett and Dan Hooker are already engaged in a strong contender for the biggest trash talk of the season. The episode gained momentum after the Briton made a tasteless joke involving the Australian's mother, which generated an even harsher response. Hooker brought up the name of a friend of Pimblett's who committed suicide. Despite initiating the trash talk, the Liverpool wrestler did not react well to the escalation of the personal attack.

On social media, Paddy Pimblett spoke out forcefully, accusing his rival of crossing all boundaries by bringing a personal tragedy into the argument. The Briton stated that the initial provocation was just a joke about the Australian's technical deficiencies in grappling, but described the response as despicable, making his displeasure clear and reinforcing the animosity between the two.

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“You thought we couldn’t be friends because I’m ranked above you. You took a hypothetical joke about how bad your grappling is and responded by badmouthing my friend who committed suicide? That’s the height of lowness, and I’m fine with that, you’re complete garbage at grappling,” wrote Paddy Pimblett.

Thought we couldn't be mates cause I'm ranked above you 🤣 you took a hypothetical joke about how bad your grappling is and responded by talking shit about my mate who committed suicide? Now thats lowest of the low and on site is fine by me you're utter dogshit at fighting 👍🏻 https://t.co/rJhnjHzZkt

— Paddy Pimblett (@PaddyTheBaddy) January 9, 2026

A moment between Paddy Pimblett and Dan Hooker in the UFC.

Paddy Pimblett in victory at UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

Undefeated in the UFC with eight wins, Paddy Pimblett is close to stepping into the octagon for the biggest fight of his career. The Briton faces Justin Gaethje for the interim lightweight title (up to 70,3 kg) at UFC 324, scheduled for January 24th.

Dan Hooker , on the other hand, is experiencing a different moment. After being defeated by Arman Tsarukyan at UFC Qatar, in a fight that could have catapulted him to the number one contender position for the title, the Australian has taken a step back and is now preparing to face Benoit Saint Denis at UFC 325, scheduled for January 31st.

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