Bruce Buffer Endorses Paddy Pimblett as UFC’s New Face
Here’s something that’ll really make you raise an eyebrow: Bruce Buffer, the man whose booming voice has sold more pay-per-views than free snacks and questionable fight cards combined, insists Paddy “The Baddy” Pimblett has the X‑factor to be the next face of the UFC. According to TMZ’s exclusive scoop on April 20, 2025, Buffer—who’s been announcing Octagon bouts since 1996—says Pimblett’s charisma, marketability and in‑ring style set him apart from the legion of hopefuls itching for a headline slot (TMZ, ESPN). Buffer’s exact words? “He’s got that flair, that connection with fans,” which sounds a lot like boxing promoters gushing over the latest hype job, but hey, it’s coming from the voice of fight night itself.
Let’s unpack this with zero sugarcoating: Pimblett, a 27‑year‑old Liverpool native with a 17‑4 pro record, rose to prominence in the UFC’s featherweight division by dishing out dramatic finishes—and occasionally talking his way into viral clips. He’s audacious, flamboyant and fully aware that a fight is as much entertainment as it is combat. Buffer’s endorsement, shared at a recent UFC press event in Las Vegas, isn’t exactly the same as a championship belt around the waist, but it does signal that the UFC brass wants a new poster boy to rival the Conor McGregor–Ronda Rousey era. Pimblett’s already racked up nearly 1.5 million Instagram followers, so the only question is whether his social‑media stunts will outshine his actual punches (MMA Fighting).
Buffer’s backing carries weight, but let’s not pretend it guarantees superstardom. The UFC has bookmarked plenty of “next big things” before—remember Sage Northcutt?—only to watch them fizzle faster than a post‑fight recovery smoothie. Pimblett’s next challenge is a high‑stakes showdown against Movsar Evloev this summer, a fight that will either validate Buffer’s proclamation or leave Pimblett scrambling for an excuse. And while Buffer’s commentary on “it” factors is entertaining copy, the actual grind of pay‑per‑views, sponsorships and belt chases will be a far tougher audition than any mic drop at weigh‑ins.
So here’s the bottom line: yes, Buffer thinks Pimblett has star quality; yes, the young Brit brings flair and highlights to a sometimes predictable roster; and yes, the UFC marketing team is ready to pounce on any viral moment. But let’s not forget that hype is cheap, and real glory is earned one brutal round at a time. And that’s today’s dose of reality. You’re welcome.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and TMZ, ESPN, MMA Fighting
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed
