Paddy Pimblett has been left absolutely delighted as stablemate Luke Riley has now signed with the UFC.
UFC rising superstar Pimblett has been part of a hugely talented gym in Liverpool, Next Generation MMA, which has produced the next wave of top MMA talent including himself and Molly McCann.
It has been an extremely positive time in the Merseyside gym, as Pimblett’s teammate Shem Rock signed a contract with the UFC after an unbeaten run with the Oktagon MMA promotion.
And now the good news continues with unbeaten Riley now announcing he has inked a deal with the UFC.
He released a statement on Instagram: “It’s official, I’ve signed with the UFC.”
Chief of promotion Cage Warriors Graham Boylan, where Riley has been plying his trade, also confirmed the news.
And Pimblett left a heartwarming comment underneath, writing: “Long time coming.”
It is a superb career move for Riley, who has now finally achieved his dream, having fallen at the final hurdle when trying to sign with the UFC in 2024.
Riley was being considered for Dana White‘s Contender Series, but visa issues prevented him from taking part.
The 26-year-old has had a fantastic run so far in professional MMA [11-0].
He has become notorious for being somewhat of a KO artist, with eight of his 11 professional victories coming before the final claxon.
Riley made the decision to switch from Muay Thai to MMA six years ago, and hasn’t looked back since having earned rave reviews in Cage Warriors.
What has Paddy Pimblett said about teammate Luke Riley?
He will now look to follow in the footsteps of Pimblett who followed an identical career path.
‘The Baddy’ had already pleaded to White on Riley’s behalf in the past.
He said earlier this year: “Luke Riley is ready for anyone and anything inside the cage, Dana White.
“You already know who my boy is. Get him signed to the UFC. He’s too good not to be on the roster, beating some FWs up for fun.”
What’s next for Paddy Pimblett in the UFC?
Pimblett is looking to push for a lightweight title shot after beating Michael Chandler in a career-best display in April.
The talented star, who is undefeated during his time in the UFC, is now ranked No.7 in the division.
He recently faced off with newly crowned champion Ilia Topuria, who is certainly keen to defend his belt against Pimblett.
But the British superstar could now face a wait, with the likes of Arman Tsarukyan waiting in the wings first.
Pimblett has floated alternative fights against alternative opponents including Dan Hooker, but he is currently in talks over his next move.