Paddy Pimblett Ends Slump With 52‑Second D’Arce at UFC 329

Lightning Return After First Loss Since 2018

Paddy Pimblett stepped into UFC 329 eager to reverse the first defeat he had suffered since 2018, a loss that had left his reputation in question after a five‑round beating by interim lightweight champion Justin Gaethje. The Englishman’s comeback night came when he faced Benoit Saint‑Denis, delivering a finish that stunned the crowd and the arena. The bout turned quickly, with Saint‑Denis attempting a high kick just nine seconds in before shooting for a takedown, setting up Pimblett’s violent response.

After a brief guillotine attempt, Pimblett settled into a dominant D’Arce choke that rendered his opponent unconscious. The submission wrapped up in 52 seconds, marking the second‑fastest D’Arce choke in UFC history and narrowly missing the record held by Kyle Daukaus at 50 seconds. “Sub of the year b****es. I knew he was out,” Pimblett declared afterward, confirming the finish was one for the ages.

52‑Second Submission: UFC’s Second‑Fastest D’Arce

The speed of the choke underlined the magnitude of the victory for Pimblett, whose career momentum had been reeling after the Gaethje loss. Saint‑Denis’s early high kick and subsequent takedown attempt gave Pimblett the opening he needed, and the fight effectively ended moments later. This rapid finish not only halted a losing streak but also re‑established Pimblett as a top‑tier contender.

The win sets up a series of audacious challenges in Pimblett’s mind. “Give me anyone and I’ll punch their f***ing head in,” he proclaimed, naming Ilia Topuria, a rematch with Gaethje, and even Conor McGregor or Max Holloway as potential next foes. His confidence is backed by a performance that now ranks among the quickest submissions in UFC history.

Pimblett’s Post‑Fight Vow and Tribute

Beyond the fight, Pimblett turned the post‑interview into a brief musical tribute, honoring late Liverpool striker Diogo Jota and his brother Andres, a moment that added a personal touch to an electrifying night. The combination of the brutal finish, the bold future plans, and the heartfelt salute left fans buzzing about what’s next for the English phenom. As the hype train gets back on track, Pimblett’s relentless optimism suggests that the UFC’s lightweight division will face no shortage of drama.