Paddy Pimblett’s MMA Mount Rushmore: A Comprehensive Analysis

Paddy Pimblett, the rising star of the UFC lightweight division, recently unveiled his “MMA Mount Rushmore,” a list of the four greatest MMA fighters in history. Surprisingly, his list excluded some of the most iconic names in the sport, including UFC superstar Conor McGregor.

Pimblett’s Mount Rushmore:

1. Jon Jones
2. George St-Pierre
3. Fedor Emelianenko
4. Anderson Silva

A Detailed Examination of Pimblett’s Choices:

1. Jon Jones:

Arguably the greatest MMA fighter of all time, Jones is known for his incredible athleticism, versatility, and dominance in the light-heavyweight and heavyweight divisions. He has won and defended the UFC light-heavyweight title multiple times and recently captured the UFC heavyweight title, making him a two-weight champion.

2. George St-Pierre:

Another legendary fighter, St-Pierre is widely regarded as the greatest welterweight of all time. He dominated the division for nearly a decade and also captured the UFC middleweight title, becoming a two-weight champion. St-Pierre’s impeccable technique, grappling skills, and relentless work ethic have earned him a place among the MMA greats.

3. Fedor Emelianenko:

Known as “The Last Emperor,” Emelianenko is a Russian icon who never fought in the UFC but is considered one of the greatest heavyweight fighters in history. During his prime in Pride FC, he went on an incredible winning streak, defeating notable opponents such as Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira, Mark Coleman, and Mirko Cro Cop.

4. Anderson Silva:

The former UFC middleweight champion, Silva is known for his exceptional striking, fluidity, and innovative techniques. At the peak of his powers, he dominated the middleweight division, defending his title ten times and cementing his legacy as one of the greatest strikers in MMA history.

McGregor’s Absence:

Many fans were surprised by the omission of Conor McGregor from Pimblett’s Mount Rushmore. McGregor is one of the biggest stars in the UFC, having achieved unparalleled success and popularity. He became the first fighter to hold UFC championships in two weight classes simultaneously (featherweight and lightweight) and has had some of the most iconic fights in MMA history.

Possible Reasons for McGregor’s Exclusion:

* Current Form: McGregor has not won a fight since 2020 and has suffered multiple setbacks in recent years.
* Controversies: McGregor has been involved in several controversies outside the cage, which may have tarnished his reputation in the eyes of some.
* Personal Bias: Pimblett’s preferences could be influenced by his personal experiences, fighting style, or other factors.

Conclusion:

Paddy Pimblett’s MMA Mount Rushmore reflects his admiration for fighters who have demonstrated exceptional skills, dominance, and longevity in the sport. While the absence of Conor McGregor may be surprising to some, Pimblett’s choices (Jon Jones, George St-Pierre, Fedor Emelianenko, and Anderson Silva) are all legends who have left an indelible mark on the history of MMA.