UFC 329: Paddy Pimblett storms past Benoit Saint-Denis with 52-second submission victory

LAS VEGAS: Liverpool lightweight Paddy Pimblett delivered a stunning performance at UFC 329, submitting Benoit Saint-Denis in just 52 seconds to strengthen his case for another shot at the division’s elite.

Pimblett, competing in the co-main event at T-Mobile Arena during International Fight Week, immediately faced pressure from the Frenchman but successfully defended a takedown before launching his submission attack.

The 31-year-old quickly locked in a guillotine choke, forcing referee Marc Goddard to intervene after Saint-Denis lost consciousness on the canvas.

The victory marked Pimblett’s first fight since his defeat by Justin Gaethje for the interim lightweight title in January.

After the impressive stoppage, the Liverpool fighter called for a rematch with Gaethje while also targeting some of the biggest names in the sport.

“Sub of the year. I'm like a spider. When I've got hold of you, you don't get out and it's as simple as that,” Pimblett said.

“Everyone counted me out. Everyone said I was finished because I lost to Gaethje but what now? Am I finished? Who wants it next? I'll beat Ilia [Topuria] up, I'll rematch Justin [Gaethje], I'll fight Conor [McGregor] or Max [Holloway] next. Give me everyone and I'll punch their head in.”

Pimblett improved his professional record to 24 victories from 28 fights, with seven wins coming via submission.

He also paid tribute to Liverpool and Portugal winger Diogo Jota, who died in a car accident 12 months earlier, during his post-fight celebrations.

Saint-Denis entered the contest riding a four-fight winning streak but was unable to cope with Pimblett’s elite-level grappling and submission skills.