Paddy Pimblett’s first defeat ended in a 35 second choke
A moment that still follows him
Paddy Pimblett’s reputation today is built on confidence, durability, and late fight composure. Yet early in his professional journey, those traits were tested almost immediately. More than a decade later, that brief defeat continues to resurface whenever his career reaches a new peak.
According to GiveMeSport, Pimblett suffered his first professional loss during his fifth bout, a fight that unfolded far quicker than anyone anticipated and left a lasting mark on his record.
Early momentum on the UK circuit
Pimblett turned professional in 2012 and quickly emerged as one of the most promising young fighters on the British scene. Before his 19th birthday, he had already secured four wins, each reinforcing his status as a fast rising prospect.
GiveMeSport reported that his fifth appearance came at Cage Warriors 60 in 2013, where he faced Cameron Else. Pimblett entered the bout undefeated at 4,0, while Else arrived with a modest 1,1 record, making Pimblett the clear favourite going in.
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A fight decided in seconds
The contest never developed into the showcase many expected. Else moved aggressively from the opening exchange and quickly locked in an anaconda choke.
Pimblett chose not to submit and attempted to fight his way free. The hold remained tight, and within 35 seconds he lost consciousness, bringing the fight to an abrupt end. Thirteen years later, it remains the only time Pimblett has been stopped in professional competition.
Careers moving in opposite directions
Following that night, the paths of the two fighters diverged sharply. Pimblett steadily rebuilt momentum and eventually established himself as one of the UFC’s most recognisable lightweights.
Else’s career took a different turn. He joined the UFC in 2020 but was released after consecutive defeats to Kyler Phillips and Qileng Aori. According to GiveMeSport, he holds an 11,6 professional record and currently competes under the Global Fight League banner.
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Building a second act
Pimblett responded to his early setback with sustained success. Since that loss, he has compiled a 23,3 professional record. His UFC debut came in 2021 with a first round knockout victory over Luigi Vendramini.
Subsequent wins over Rodrigo Vargas, Jordan Leavitt, Jared Gordon, Tony Ferguson, King Green, and Michael Chandler followed, with most of those contests ending before the final bell.
A title opportunity shaped by circumstance
Now, Pimblett stands on the verge of the biggest bout of his career. He is scheduled to face Justin Gaethje at UFC 324 for the interim lightweight title.
GiveMeSport reported that the opportunity arose after Ilia Topuria opted to relinquish the belt due to an extended absence from competition, allowing the division to move forward rather than stall.
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As Pimblett prepares to step into the cage once again, the memory of that 35 second loss serves as a reminder of how far he has come, and how quickly fortunes can change in mixed martial arts.
Sources: GiveMeSport
