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MMA fans celebrate as undefeated Paddy Pimblett teammate signs UFC contract

Originally posted on MMA on SI  |  By Drew Beaupre  |  Last updated Aug 21, 2025 1:53 PM ET
(Cage Warriors)

An undefeated MMA fighter that’s long been considered one of the sport’s top prospects is officially set to join his teammate Paddy Pimblett in the UFC.

It’s been a long time coming after he was originally set to fight on Dana White’s Contenders Series last year before withdrawing due to visa issues, but undefeated featherweight Luke Riley has finally secured a UFC d eal after a stellar run with top UK MMA promotion Cage Warriors.

The 26-year-old boasts an impressive 11-0 record since turning pro in 2021, and eight of those fights have seen Riley stop his opponent inside the distance with strikes.

“Cage warriors fighters do way better than bellator fighters so it’s promising” – @Dev1Poatan

“Absolutely wicked signing: scraps incoming” - @Ihaveopinions54

“I’m excited to see his run to the top” - @LukaDoncicMMA

“They took their time. Can’t wait to see his debut in the ufc” – @FlowzzTbk

Current #7-ranked UFC lightweight contender Paddy Pimblett is just one of a few major names that train with Riley at Next Generation MMA Liverpool, and now fans will eagerly await news of who the featherweight will square off with in what will be a highly-anticipated UFC debut.

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This article first appeared on MMA on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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