Paddy Pimblett's first two UFC opponents have been released

The first two UFC opponents of Paddy Pimblett have been released from their contracts with the promotion.

Ever since entering the Ultimate Fighting Championship, Paddy Pimblett has been on a mission to get his name out there. He was already a big figure on the regional scene with Cage Warriors but now, he’s taken his game to a whole new level through his personality and prowess inside the Octagon.

Up to this point he’s had two foes since making his debut and on both occasions he was able to pick up the win. Neither came particularly easy after ‘The Baddy’ was caught with big shots, but in the end, he was able to knock Luigi Vendramini out and submit Kazula Vargas to move to 2-0 in the lightweight division.

Many felt as if they’d shown enough to be given another chance to shine in the UFC. However, in what could be a pretty good indicator for Pimblett’s matchmaking, UFC Roster Watch revealed that both Vendramini and Vargas have been released in the latest ‘purge’ by the company.

❌ Fighter removed: Kazula Vargas

❌ Fighter removed: Luigi Vendramini

Vendramini went 1-3 in the UFC with one of his other losses coming at the hands of Fares Ziam, who was also let go in the latest batch of releases.

Vargas was in the exact same position at 1-3 and at the age of 36, it’s unlikely we’ll see him back in the big time.

A step up in competition is needed for Pimblett if he wants to be taken seriously at this level and as per the recent ‘leaks’ from Dana White’s office, it would appear as if that’s precisely what he’s going to get.

The 27-year-old is being lined up for a showdown at UFC London with Ottman Azaitar, who currently sits at 13-0. He hasn’t fought since September 2020 as a result of the controversy surrounding his release,