Mixed martial arts (MMA) is a sport often recognized for its intense physicality and violent reputation. While that perception does hold true, it is equally important to acknowledge the fighters who step into the cage and choose vulnerability amid the sport’s brutality. One such athlete is Paddy Pimblett, a prolific competitor in the UFC, the world’s largest MMA promotion, who has been candid about his struggles with mental health. Known for his charismatic personality, unapologetic authenticity, and strong connection with fans, Pimblett has cultivated a platform that extends far beyond the octagon, making his advocacy especially powerful.
In an interview with Sky Sports, Pimblett shared that during one of his fight camps, he was struggling with depression that left him feeling completely unlike himself, so much so that his coach considered pulling him from the bout entirely. Recognizing that something needed to change, Pimblett sought professional help. He started therapy, a decision he credits with transforming his mindset and reinvigorating his training within just six short weeks. Pimblett has emphasized that therapy gave him tools not just to cope, but to thrive, reminding fellow athletes and fans alike that mental preparation is just as crucial as physical training. That renewed focus led to an impressive victory over Jordan Leavitt at UFC Fight Night 208, but it was not the fight alone that left an impact. It was what Pimblett chose to do next.
Following his win, Pimblett used his post-fight interview to deliver a deeply personal message, dedicating the bout to a close friend from his hometown who had recently died by suicide. He spoke openly about the heartbreak of losing someone you care about and urged men to speak up about what they are going through, emphasizing that bottling up emotions only causes harm. Addressing the stigma around men’s mental health, Pimblett stated, “People would rather have you cry on their shoulder than have to go to your funeral.” The raw emotion in his voice resonated with millions of viewers worldwide, and clips of his speech quickly went viral across social media, sparking conversations about men’s mental health–not just in the MMA world, but also in communities far outside of it.
In a subsequent backstage interview, Pimblett expanded on his remarks, sharing his hope that his words might inspire other men to reach out and talk about their feelings. He has continued to attend therapy himself, noting that it has not only supported his mental wellbeing, but also motivated him to grow as a fighter and competitor. Since then, he has supported and collaborated with mental health clinics and charities to spread awareness, speaking publicly about the importance of emotional openness. Pimblett even started his own charity, The Baddy Foundation (named for his moniker, Paddy the Baddy), dedicated to uplifting communities throughout Liverpool and surrounding areas by meeting their most basic needs, with a specific focus on combating food insecurity and the stigma surrounding men’s mental health. The organization collaborates with community partners such as schools, food banks and food service providers, hospitals, and mental health providers to impact positive change, even donating £25,000 to the suicide prevention foundation James’ Place in 2024. Regarding the donation, Pimblett stated, “Receiving the news that a friend took his own life because of mental health struggles made me realize I couldn’t stand by and do nothing with the public platform that I’m so lucky to have. The Baddy Foundation is building from the ground up and I’ll continue to help as much as I possibly can with the help of my loyal fans.” Pimblett’s contributions to the wellbeing of his community have been dubbed “life-changing” by James’ Place staff, who noted that increased attention to and funding for the cause are helping the men they serve to “come through suicidal crisis and find hope for the future.”
Today, Pimblett remains committed to challenging the stigma surrounding men’s mental health, determined to use his platform to encourage conversation and connection. Whether he is speaking to fans in a packed arena, addressing his millions of social media followers, or working quietly behind the scenes with community organizations, his message remains the same: no one should suffer in silence. His success as an athlete and as an advocate serves as a reminder that strength is not only measured in physical endurance, but also in the courage to be honest, to seek help, and to fight for the wellbeing of others. Pimblett said it best in his post-fight interview in 2022: “There’s a stigma in this world that men can’t talk. If you’re a man, and you’ve got weight on your shoulders… Please speak to someone. Speak to anyone… Let’s get rid of the stigma and men start talking.”
If you are or someone you know is struggling with mental health concerns, contact us to connect with one of our therapists who can help you on your wellness journey.