UFC Slugger Makes Bold Challenge: Paddy Pimblett, Dan Hooker, Justin Gaethje in His Crosshairs

This UFC lightweight has violence on his mind.

Mathew Riddle | Sep 14, 2023

UFC Slugger Makes Bold Challenge: Paddy Pimblett, Dan Hooker, Justin Gaethje in His Crosshairs /

Matt "Steamrolla" Frevola has laid out his roadmap for UFC lightweight title contention. The no. 14 ranked lightweight fighter has his sights set on two big-name opponents before challenging for Justin Gaethje's BMF title, and then the lightweight throne.

First on his hit-list is British superstar Paddy Pimblett, who he also called out in his last fight at UFC 288:

"[Pimblett's] got a lot of hype. ...The buildup --- the atmosphere is what I'm looking forward to," Frevola told 'Morning Kombat' on Sept 13.

After that? Frevola has two more names he'd like to fight before considering title contention:

"I think after I beat Paddy, hopefully at MSG, I think we're two fights away from a title fight," Frevola explained. "I beat Paddy and then maybe I beat Dan Hooker after that, and then maybe I beat Justin Gaethje for the BMF belt after that.

"And then we fight for the title."

It's clear Frevola is looking for any big-name dance partner to propel himself into the limelight. He also called out Dustin Poirier for a November showdown in a Tweet on August 22, and even considered Bobby Green --- amongst others --- in the replies:

Im still looking for a dance partner for MSG in November 👊🏻 ⚔️ #WouldBeAnHonor https://t.co/FFi1aTyxsn
— Matt “The Steamrolla”Frevola (@SteamRollaa) August 22, 2023

If Frevola could secure himself a big-name fight and add another highlight reel finish to his resume, fans can expect to see "The Steamrolla" in even more high-profile bouts.

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Published Sep 14, 2023

MATHEW RIDDLE

Mathew is a UK-based combat sports journalist, graphic designer, and SEO expert with over five years of experience in digital marketing and a dedicated four-year track record in MMA journalism. He joined MMAKO in 2023. Mathew's insights have been featured on The Fight Fanatic, Heavy on UFC, Fansided, and Sportskeeda. Reach him at mr@thefightfanatic.com.