Liverpudlian hype train Paddy ‘The Baddy’ Pimblett makes his triumphant return to the octagon, facing Mexico’s Rodrigo Vargas. Vargas has had a rocky run in the UFC, going 1-2 in the promotion so far. What most people don’t acknowledge is that one of those losses was a DQ from an illegal knee that knocked his opponent out, so he’s practically 2-1. Plenty of people are overlooking Vargas, including Paddy himself, who is already milking the Topuria matchup. Let me tell you why Rodrigo Vargas is a live dog in this fight.
Paddy Pimblett vs Rodrigo Vargas Prediction
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Rodrigo Vargas is a puncher/grappler with hands of stone. He stands southpaw and likes to set up his onslaught by playing with his opponent’s lead hand, launching his left leg roundhouse, or countering with crushing straights. He actively punishes aggressive opponents, specifically those that leave their chins exposed. This resumé of knockouts is actually quite terrifying, he’s knocking guys out dead, and it’s not even counting his 3 submission wins.
Many people seem to forget that Paddy Pimblett is a grappler first and foremost. He had an incredibly exciting debut, but it was rocky. Pimblett was rocked and nearly finished by Luigi Vendramini, before rallying and finishing the Italian with strikes. This is Paddy’s fundamental flaw, his hubris allows him to posture up and hold his chin high in the air, it’s like an all you can eat buffet but for people who love punching you in the mouth.
When Paddy has an opponent hurt, he storms in with that chin held high, it’s just waiting to be cracked by the right fighter. I think Vargas can be the one to finish Paddy by strikes. Vargas is a very competent grappler, and a fierce puncher, I think he sparks Paddy inside 2 rounds. Don’t overlook opponents.
My pick – Rodrigo Vargas by KO/TKO
Paddy Pimblett vs Rodrigo Vargas Betting Suggestion
I’m going against the flow by picking Vargas, so be warned. Vargas is a 4/1 underdog to win the fight out right, 7/1 by finish, 9/1 by decision! He’s a live underdog in this fight so these odds should tempt you very much. Per Bet365
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