Paddy Pimblett, a prominent UFC fighter, has expressed his dismay over the negative reactions he received on social media after encouraging men to speak openly about their mental health. The 29-year-old Liverpool native revealed he was facing personal challenges during what he described as the “worst training camp of his life” six weeks ago. Seeking help significantly altered his mindset.
Pimblett is scheduled to compete against American lightweight Bobby Green at UFC 304 in Manchester on Saturday. He condemned the critical responses to his mental health advocacy, especially accusations of it being a PR stunt.
“Seeing Sky Sports put that interview up and then seeing some of the responses is disgusting,” Pimblett stated. “People say I’m doing it for publicity. Why would I invite such pressure on myself? People claim I’m doing it for attention when I’ve known several people who have taken their own lives. I’ve contemplated it in the past. I speak out because I feel it’s necessary to prevent more suicides, particularly among men.”
Two years ago, Pimblett first publicly discussed his mental health struggles after a close friend’s suicide, leaving the octagon in tears following his victory over Jordan Leavitt. The reaction to his initial comments was largely positive, with many people reaching out to him on social media to share their own experiences.
Pimblett recently faced mental health challenges that affected his training about six weeks ago. His coach, Paul Rimmer, noticed and reached out to check on him.
“Paul is like my second dad. He’s always looking out for my best interests,” Pimblett said. “Since that moment, I’ve had one of the best training camps ever.”
With therapy and support from his family and friends, Pimblett managed to turn his training around.
“A few weeks ago, I contacted a mental health charity for men to talk and get through it. I did, and now I’m ready for anything,” Pimblett added. “I wouldn’t still be here if it weren’t for my wife, Laura. My family, my team, and my mates have been incredibly supportive. When the Sky interview came out, I got messages from my friends, and I feel good again.”
Aspinall ‘Happier Without Social Media’
British UFC interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall echoed Pimblett’s sentiments, revealing he deleted social media ahead of his fight against American Curtis Blaydes at UFC 304. Aspinall, who will defend his title in the co-main event at the Co-op Live arena, said social media was negatively impacting his life.
The 31-year-old champion admitted to being “addicted” to scrolling and reading comments from fans.
“For anyone feeling overwhelmed or anxious, I highly recommend deleting social media apps,” Aspinall advised. “I was addicted to scrolling, and my life is much better without reading hundreds of opinions about me every day. It’s an addiction like any other.”
Aspinall continues to post on social media through a team member, maintaining an authentic presence without personally managing the accounts.
“I’m much happier without social media and won’t be going back after the fight,” Aspinall said. “I might download it occasionally, but I’ll never keep it on my phone full-time.”
Pimblett and Aspinall’s experiences highlight the mental health challenges faced by athletes in the digital age and underscore the importance of seeking help and setting boundaries for well-being.
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