Former UFC Champion is Absolutely Furious about Paddy Pimblett’s Purse Withholding

Paddy Pimblett won his fight against Benoit Saint Denis in an emphatic manner. While celebrating his win, ‘The Baddy’ jumped over the cage to show his excitement. Unfortunately, it was this action of his that caused his purse to be withheld. Speaking on the same, former middleweight champion Michael Bisping sounded off on the rule. 

Michael Bisping Rips UFC for Paddy Pimblett Incident

Pimblett is currently toiling to secure his full UFC 329 purse after it has been withheld by the Nevada State Athletic Commission. Elaborating on the incident, Bisping recently stated how a lot of fighters have jumped over the cage in recent times. He also pointed out that jumping over the rope is a common practice in boxing too. 

Bisping stated, "I did it at UFC 199 in California. A lot of fighters jump on top of the cage. You've just won in front of thousands of people and millions watching around the world. You're allowed to celebrate. Boxers jump on the ropes all the time. But MMA fighters jump on the cage, and suddenly they get fined or have their purses withheld."

Bisping also criticized the commission and accused it of trying to make money from the fighters. The former UFC champion called for the rule to change with immediate effect. Interestingly, not only Bisping, but Daniel Cormier too, echoed a similar sentiment. 

Daniel Cormier Slams Commission for Bizarre Rule

After Pimblett’s situation with his purse came to light, reactions started to flood in. Joining the list, former double champion Cormier, too, found the rule ‘ridiculous.’ He pointed out that the rule prohibiting athletes from celebrating their wins is purely ‘absurd.’ 

Cormier said, “Now you’re telling me Max Holloway, Paddy Pimblett, and Gable Steveson are going to go in front of the Nevada State Athletic Commission because of their celebrations. You are told you cannot jump on top of the cage… You can’t help it! You really cannot help it… This rule right here is absolutely absurd.”

 

While the protests have been loud, there is still no positive news coming about the withholding of the purses.