Paddy Pimblett Backs Teammate's UFC Rise as Bisping Predicts

Paddy Pimblett is celebrating a major win for his team while his own path in the UFC lightweight division becomes clearer. His training partner, George Staines, secured a UFC contract with a brutal first-round slam on Dana White's Contender Series this week. Meanwhile, UFC Hall of Famer Michael Bisping has laid out a compelling case for Pimblett's next opponent.

Pimblett's Teammate Secures UFC Contract with Vicious Slam

Pimblett's prediction came true on Tuesday, September 29, 2026. The Liverpool fighter had publicly backed his Next Generation MMA teammate, the undefeated George Staines, to earn a UFC deal on the Contender Series. Staines delivered in devastating fashion, knocking opponent Loai Abushaar unconscious with a vicious mat return slam in the first round at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas. The 26-year-old Englishman, who improved his record to 11-0, trains daily with Pimblett. "He's very high level. His skills are brilliant," Pimblett said of Staines before the fight, expressing confidence he would get a finish and a contract.

Michael Bisping Predicts Pimblett vs. Topuria Next

With champion Justin Gaethje injured and not expected back until 2027, Bisping argues the logical move is to book Gaethje against the "undeniable" Arman Tsarukyan. That scenario, the former champion explained on his YouTube channel, would leave Pimblett to face Ilia Topuria. Pimblett is coming off a strong first-round submission win over Benoit Saint Denis at UFC 329 in July, rebounding from his interim title loss to Gaethje in January. A fight against Topuria, who Gaethje beat for the title in June, represents a massive opportunity for the British star to re-enter the title conversation.

Pimblett's Focus on Contender Series Talent

Pimblett's engagement with the Contender Series highlights his role as a mentor and his eye for emerging talent. His specific call-out of Staines' fight demonstrates his investment in the next generation of UK fighters. Staines, a fellow Cage Warriors alumnus, is now the latest product of their shared Liverpool gym to reach the sport's pinnacle. Pimblett described him as "one of the nicest kids you'll ever meet" and a "Star Wars and Lego nerd," showcasing the personal connection behind the professional support.

Key Takeaways

• George Staines, Pimblett's teammate, earned a UFC contract on Sept. 29, 2026 with a first-round slam KO.
• Michael Bisping predicts Pimblett will fight Ilia Topuria next, while Gaethje faces Arman Tsarukyan.
• Pimblett is riding momentum from a first-round submission win over Benoit Saint Denis in July 2026.
• The Next Generation MMA Liverpool camp continues to produce UFC-level talent like Staines and Pimblett.