Paddy Pimblett Open to Moving Up in Weight for Conor McGregor Fight

Paddy Pimblett has reportedly expressed willingness to move up in weight to take on Conor McGregor, with a potential crossover matchup between the two men said to be a discussed possibility for later in 2026. The report, which is not yet officially confirmed, emerges as Pimblett looks ahead to another fight this year following his bout with Renato Moicano.

Pimblett, 31, holds a 23-4 record and is currently ranked sixth in the UFC lightweight division. The Liverpool native stands five-foot-ten with a 73-inch reach and competes out of Next Generation MMA. He is among the more active strikers in the division, landing 5.49 significant strikes per minute at 52 percent accuracy, and he supplements his standup with a high submission attempt rate of 1.2 per 15 minutes.

McGregor, 37, carries a 22-6 record and fights out of SBG Ireland. The southpaw stands five-foot-nine with a 74-inch reach and remains one of the sport's most recognizable names. He lands 5.32 significant strikes per minute at 49 percent accuracy, with a career built almost entirely on his striking rather than the grappling game, reflected in a submission attempt rate of just 0.1 per 15 minutes.

Why it matters

• Pimblett is currently ranked sixth at lightweight, and a high-profile crossover fight would carry significant divisional attention regardless of the weight class used.
• McGregor has not been active in recent years, making any confirmed return a major event; this report remains unverified.
• The stylistic contrast is notable — Pimblett's submission threat against McGregor's near-exclusive reliance on striking — though a catchweight or welterweight arrangement could reshape the physical dynamic.
• Both fighters carry strong fan bases in the British Isles, giving the potential bout obvious commercial appeal.