When it comes to Liverpool fighters Molly McCann and Paddy Pimblett, where you find one, you’ll find the other.
They’re practically brother and sister at this point, often finishing each other’s sentences. Or maybe it’s more like a buddy cop comedy. So when both turned up back stage at UFC 274 in Phoenix this past weekend, well… ask one, the other will likely answer. And the question at hand:
Will they be fighting at UFC London?
“He’s going to be like a Scouser in a police station: no comment,” joked McCann. For those unaware, “Scouser” is a reference to a citizen of Liverpool. It dates back to a Norwegian stew, lobscouse, popular in the in the area with sailors of old, and still eaten today.
“I don’t know. I really don’t know,” was Pimblett’s own reply. “We’ll see what happens over the coming week or two.”
When Paddy was asked if it came down to pay, McCann scolded one reporter. “Don’t make that narrative.” For Pimblett, no matter where or when he fights, he’ll be getting paid more regardless.
“I don’t matter what, I’ll be getting paid more for my next fight anyway, no matter where it is. Whether it’s London or a Pay-Per-View in America, I’ll be getting paid more.”
After getting the star treatment at home in March, at the UFC London event at the O2 Arena on March 19, it would make sense to book another homecoming for the duo. Especially with all those cheers from the British crowd.
“He can take it where ever he wants and it’ll make that noise,” said McCann. Added Pimblett, “it doesn’t bother me where I fight, to be honest. No matter where or when I fight in the U.K. the gaff [house] will sell out. I think it’s the same in Vegas or anywhere else, to be honest. It’s that simple.”
As for McCann, does she have a fight booked?
“No,” she replied, nodding in the affirmative. “I haven’t got an opponent,” she added, still nodding before fessing up. “I signed the contract. Signed sealed and delivered. I’m sure the UFC will announce it very soon.”
McCann has been known to frequent boxing events, and admitted on Saturday that the only reason she didn’t pursue a career there was that her weight class wasn’t added to the Olympic games. She still sees boxing in her future — just not any time soon.
“Is that something in my future, yes. But is it in the near future? No. My only dream right now is to win a UFC belt, and I can’t distract myself and have one foot out the door. To beat [Valentina] Shevchenko, you need to be absolutely on your game. I’m telling you, I’ve been training for southpaws the last two years, I’ll be ready when the time comes.”
Watch the full UFC 274 media scrum with Molly McCann and Paddy Pimblett above.
