TLDR
- Paddy Pimblett warned Dan Hooker not to visit Liverpool, saying locals would attack him
- The warning came after Hooker made references to Pimblett’s late teammate and issued an on-site challenge
- Pimblett stated 60 Scousers would be waiting to assault Hooker if he came to the city
- Pimblett called Hooker a ‘bum’ and referenced his quick loss to Michael Chandler
- Both lightweight fighters continue trading insults publicly as their feud grows
Sources: EssentiallySports | Bloody Elbow | EssentiallySports
Paddy Pimblett has told Dan Hooker to stay away from Liverpool or face violence from locals. The UFC lightweight issued the warning during an interview with Fox Sports Australia.
Pimblett said that 60 Scousers would be ready to attack Hooker if he visited the English city. He warned that locals are prepared to ‘batter’ the New Zealand fighter due to their ongoing feud.
Feud Turns Personal
The rivalry between the two fighters has grown heated in recent weeks. Hooker made references to Pimblett’s late teammate during their public exchanges, crossing a line that angered the Liverpool native.
Hooker also issued an ‘on-site’ challenge to Pimblett, suggesting they would fight whenever and wherever they met. This type of challenge means the fighters would confront each other immediately upon meeting, rather than waiting for an official bout.
Pimblett responded by dismissing Hooker’s fighting credentials. He called the New Zealand fighter a ‘bum’ and pointed to his recent poor performance record.
The Liverpool fighter specifically referenced Hooker’s quick loss to Michael Chandler. That defeat highlighted what Pimblett sees as a decline in Hooker’s career.
Both Fighters Eye Lightweight Opportunities
Pimblett and Hooker are both active in the UFC’s lightweight division. The division is one of the most competitive in mixed martial arts.
Both fighters are looking for big opportunities to advance their careers. High-profile feuds like this one often generate interest from UFC matchmakers and fans.
Pimblett, known by his nickname ‘The Baddy,’ has built a large following due to his entertaining fighting style and personality. He has become one of the UFC’s most popular British fighters.
Hooker has been fighting at a high level for years but has struggled with consistency recently. The trash talk with Pimblett has kept him in the spotlight despite recent setbacks.
The public nature of their conflict has intensified through social media and interviews. Both fighters continue to exchange insults and challenges through various platforms.
The involvement of sensitive topics, including references to family and deceased friends, has made the feud more personal. These elements have moved the rivalry beyond typical pre-fight promotion.
Pimblett’s warning about Liverpool represents an escalation in the conflict. By suggesting that ordinary citizens would attack Hooker, he has raised the stakes beyond just the two fighters.
The warning was delivered during Pimblett’s appearance on Fox Sports Australia, where he spoke openly about his feelings toward Hooker. He made clear that the New Zealand fighter would not be welcome in his hometown due to the disrespect shown during their exchanges.
