Paddy Pimblett showed Anthony Joshua exactly why he is arguably the UFC’s fastest rising star during a light-hearted training session.
The British pair are two of combat sports’ biggest names, with Joshua a commercial super power in boxing, while Pimblett is currently on a trajectory destined for the pinnacle of the UFC.
Despite their shared talents in combat sports, the two have rarely crossed paths, until now.
As part of a sponsorship deal with Under Armour, the two were pit against each other in both MMA and boxing training as they showed each other their skills.
Pimblett first showed Joshua some of his wrestling and grappling skills, in particular the chokehold which he used to record career-best victory against Michael Chandler in May.
The Liverpudlian took down the giant heavyweight, who weighs over 230lbs, and quickly placed him in a choke hold.
Of course, it was playful and the pair were seen grinning during the exchange.
Joshua was flat on his back with Pimblett tightening the hold, before loosening the grip.
The British heavyweight was stunned, and replied: “That is mad innit? If you done that properly, I reckon I could get out.”
He then added: “First time I have been in the cage. I just said to myself, ‘this ain’t for me.'”
Proceedings next switched to Joshua, who then coached Pimblett on his boxing ability.
Joshua showed Pimblett a range of powerful combinations, which have seen him floor the likes of Wladimir Klitschko and Dillian Whyte during his illustrious career.
The Jiu-Jitsu specialist was keen to learn from AJ and sharpen up his striking, and the pair were grinning throughout their playful session.
What is next for Paddy Pimblett and Anthony Joshua?
For now, the pair are out of respective action and are waiting to officially confirm their next bouts.
They are at very different stages of their respective careers, with Pimblett awaiting a lightweight title shot.
‘The Baddy’ is trying to enforce an immediate clash with 155lbs king Ilia Topuria.
The bout could land in January when the dynamite-striking champion is set to return.
But Justin Gaethje could push to enforce his status as leading contender, and make the rising star wait.
As for Joshua, he is set to make his return imminently after an injury setback following his KO defeat to Daniel Dubois last year.
His exact date for a return has yet to be confirmed, with promoter Eddie Hearn suggesting he could first seek a run-out against lowly opposition before the end of the year.
But he has also been sounded out as a potential headliner for a mega-fight in Africa in February.
Irrespective of what happens, it is seen by Joshua and his camp as a last chance to try and reinstate his name in the world level mix.
