Paddy Pimblett next fight uncertain after stem cell injections in left hand

The British lightweight said he cannot use his left hand in training after recent stem cell injections, having said earlier this month that he expects to return in 2027.

By Combat Sports UK Staff · Published Fri 30 Oct, 15:09 UK · AI-assisted reporting

Paddy Pimblett has said his next move is undecided after recent stem cell injections in his left hand left him unable to use it in training.

Asked what comes next during an appearance on the How U Livin J Piven podcast, the British lightweight said: “At the minute, I don’t know.” He explained that he can do almost nothing with the treated hand, but has kept training with his coach and is still striking, using kicks, elbows and his right hand.

Pimblett added: “I haven’t been putting nothing on this hand, I’ve just been going southpaw, going orthodox, switching it up. I’m just working on other stuff. Working on my stance and things like that.” Earlier this month, he said he would probably return in 2027, and that he planned to start a training camp after enjoying the Christmas period.

Pimblett has suggested coaching The Ultimate Fighter opposite Ilia Topuria as a way to build towards a fight between the two. Coaching the series would also give him time to return to full fitness. On the podcast, however, he said he doubts it will happen because he believes Topuria would not want to be around him while the show is filmed.

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Paddy Pimblett Ilia Topuria