UFC Star Supports Friend After His First Career Loss

Losing in front of millions isn't easy, but having someone believe in you anyway makes all the difference.

UFC fighter Paddy Pimblett faced his first defeat inside the octagon Saturday night in Las Vegas, losing to Justin Gaethje in a five-round championship bout. The 30-year-old from Liverpool had spent $150,000 on tickets to bring friends and family to witness what he hoped would be his first title win.

One person watching from home was Molly McCann, Pimblett's longtime friend and training partner from their gym in Liverpool. Within hours of the loss, she posted an encouraging message that reminded everyone what real support looks like.

"Not the first loss and won't be the last, but he'll grow from this and so will the team," McCann wrote on Instagram. "Hearts broken for you Padge, but couldn't be more proud of you either."

Her words highlighted something bigger than one competition. McCann, a former UFC fighter herself who now boxes professionally, knows firsthand that careers are built on resilience, not perfection.

Why This Inspires

In a world obsessed with winning, McCann's response reminds us that character shows up in defeat. She didn't make excuses or deflect blame. Instead, she acknowledged the pain while pointing toward growth.

The Liverpool gym where both athletes train, Next Generation MMA, has built a reputation for supporting fighters through highs and lows. McCann's public encouragement reflects that culture of lifting teammates up when they need it most.

Her message reached beyond just Pimblett. Thousands of fans saw a real example of friendship that doesn't vanish when success does.

True loyalty means celebrating someone's courage to try, even when the outcome disappoints.