It’s time to take Paddy Pimblett seriously as a legitimate, top-tier lightweight. That’s what UFC CEO Dana White thinks.

Pimblett (22-3 MMA, 6-0 UFC) delivered a stunning performance in the biggest spot of his career on Saturday at UFC 304, strangling King Green in highlight-reel fashion in front of a raucous crowd at Co-op Live in Manchester, England. It was the first fight of Pimblett’s new contract, and he earned an additional $200,000 in Performance of the Night bonus money for his efforts.

The convincing result skyrocketed Pimblett’s reputation, cementing him as one of the 15 best lightweights with his sights set on Renato Moicano, win or lose in his UFC Paris bout against Benoit Saint Denis on September 28. Pimblett also took the moment to criticize those who said he would never reach such heights in his career, and White said he deserves it.

“He’s one of those guys that I think his personality or whatever it is — people aren’t afraid of him,” White told MMA Junkie and other reporters at the UFC 304 post-fight press conference. “I don’t know. I can’t explain it. He showed tonight that you don’t have to be afraid of him, but you have to worry about him. And now he’s in the top 15. And he’s never lost in the UFC. So he’s the real deal.”

White was asked about all sorts of scenarios regarding Pimblett’s future. Does he get that fight with Moicano or someone at that level? Could he get a five-round headliner next time? Would it be in Europe?

The possible scenarios for ‘The Baddy’ are endless and now it’s up to White to determine the best one.

“You can do anything with Paddy,” White said. “The guy is a superstar. There’s no doubt about that. Anyone who keeps doubting him is just going to keep proving everyone wrong. It was a big test for him and he breaks into the top 15 and he did it impressively against a very motivated, very talented guy.”

For more information on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s UFC 304 event hub.