UFC fighter Paddy Pimblett is leading an initiative to enhance mental well-being using mixed martial arts. Pimblett, poised for a lightweight title opportunity next year, has been an advocate for mental health awareness. Following his victory over Jordan Leavitt in London in 2022, where he dedicated his win to a lost friend due to suicide, Pimblett launched The Baddy Foundation to address food insecurity and combat the stigma surrounding men’s mental health.
In addition to his endeavors, Pimblett will be a representative for UFC’s collaboration with OnSide, which aims to offer weekly discussions for young individuals. These sessions, overseen by skilled trainers, focus on fostering self-discipline, self-defense techniques, confidence, coordination, and mental toughness within a nurturing environment.
Expressing his gratitude for his roots in Liverpool and his current platform in the UFC, Pimblett emphasized the opportunities martial arts provided him. He expressed pride in supporting programs that enable young people in Wirral to discover their passions, enhance self-assurance, and realize attainable goals.
CEO Jamie Masraff of OnSide commented on the positive impact of the partnership with UFC in providing martial arts sessions at Youth Zones, with plans to extend support at The Hive by introducing well-being support groups. These initiatives align with UFC’s commitment to supporting the mental health of young individuals by fostering open discussions, building confidence, enhancing resilience, and promoting a sense of belonging.
Pimblett shared his personal struggles and highlighted the importance of breaking the stigma around men’s mental health by encouraging open communication. He stressed the significance of seeking help rather than succumbing to despair, urging men to reach out to others for support.
For more information about OnSide, please visit www.onsideyouthzones.org.