MMA Meets Boxing Legacy: David Price Praises Pimblett's UFC Ambitions

MMA has taken over the world of combat sports. The UFC packs arenas and attracts millions of viewers. The mix of striking, grappling, and endurance has pushed the sport to the front of the global stage, and it’s not slowing down.

Still, that rise doesn’t erase what came before it. The legacy of boxing still matters, especially when names like David Price come up.

Having said this, the former heavyweight recently sat down with a representative from the 247Bet boxing betting platform, using the interview to reflect on the current fight scene and offer praise for rising UFC talent Paddy Pimblett. His take bridged two worlds, reminding fans that while MMA may be the future, boxing's voice still matters.

Price Sees a Big Future for Pimblett

David Price didn’t hold back in his praise for Paddy Pimblett ahead of UFC 324. Before Pimblett stepped into the cage with Justin Gaethje, Price spoke about what a win could mean for Liverpool. “He’s a cracking lad,” Price said, calling Pimblett a standout figure who’s carried the MMA torch in the city since Darren Till’s rise.

He also pointed to Pimblett’s impact outside the sport, from community outreach to mental health advocacy, as reasons why the fighter is respected beyond the cage.

The fight itself didn’t go Pimblett’s way, though. In a five-round war for the interim lightweight belt, Gaethje won by unanimous decision. Pimblett landed over 150 significant strikes and pushed through heavy pressure, but the veteran’s control proved too much. All three judges gave it to Gaethje, and Pimblett suffered his first UFC loss, falling to 23-4.

Still, Price’s pre-fight words landed in the right place. Even in defeat, Pimblett earned respect. He fought through fatigue, ate big shots, and kept moving forward. For Price, that kind of grit counts, and it shows Pimblett’s potential is far from capped.

Experience Shapes Perspective

Drawing on his own career, David Price spoke about the demands fighters face in both boxing and MMA. For him, preparation is about more than grinding.

He also pointed out that staying motivated over time takes more than discipline. Fighters need a clear reason to keep showing up, whether that’s chasing legacy or providing for those around them.

He linked that mindset to Paddy Pimblett, who’s had to carry the weight of high expectations, constant media attention, and the physical demands of the sport.

On the growing number of crossover fights, like Jake Paul’s boxing events, Price offered a balanced take. He sees it as entertainment, an adrenaline buzz, but also recognizes its role in keeping combat sports in the spotlight. For fighters like Pimblett, personality matters, and Price sees that as part of the game now.

Fury’s Comeback and the Heavyweights Behind Him

When Tyson Fury announced his return, David Price wasn’t surprised. Fury, now 38, is aiming for a comeback in 2026. “He thinks he can definitely beat anyone, no matter what,” Price added.

But while Fury grabs headlines, Price pointed to what’s happening just behind him. Young names like Moses Itauma are already making some noise. Itauma, only 21, has become quite famous in the boxing world due to his sharp footwork, power, and composure.

Fabio Wardley is another name on the rise, with momentum and clean wins. Daniel Dubois is still in the conversation.

What stands out now is the depth. The division isn’t leaning on just one star anymore. Between veterans coming back and new talent pushing through, the matchups are wide open, and that’s exactly what the sport needs.

Liverpool's Role in Combat Sports Excellence

According to David Price, Liverpool continues to produce serious talent across boxing and MMA, fighters who, in his words, don’t always get the spotlight they deserve.

“Obviously, Jazza Dickens is a world champion and probably doesn’t get the recognition he deserves. What a career he’s had,” Price said.

He didn’t stop there. Price named Nick Ball, Andrew Cain, and Frankie Stringer as fighters to watch, crediting the city’s gyms for developing real depth. “You’ve got Nick Ball, you’ve got Andrew Cain... all the Everton Red Triangle, that’s got a great set-up there,” he added.

Some Things Still Matter More Than Hype

Through every name, every fight, and every gym mentioned, one thing was clear in Price’s words: preparation, respect, and roots still count.

Behind the noise of social media and crossover headlines, the sport still belongs to those who put the work in long before the lights come on. And in cities like Liverpool, that mindset still shapes the fighters coming through.