Ilia Topuria revealed that he was confident in Paddy Pimblett's victory at UFC 324 and had already started preparing for a potential bout against him. Topuria's statement suggests he anticipated Pimblett winning his most recent fight and saw him as a logical next opponent. The featherweight champion's comments indicate active interest in facing the popular British lightweight. However, some fans expressed preference for a potential matchup with Justin Gaethje instead. No official announcement about Topuria's next opponent has been made.
Ilia Topuria has revealed he was so confident in Paddy Pimblett's performance at UFC 324 that he began preparing for a potential fight against the British lightweight before the result was even confirmed.
Topuria, the pound-for-pound number one fighter in the world, currently holds a 17-1 record and is ranked second in the lightweight division. The 29-year-old Spaniard, who trains out of Climent Club, is a relentless finisher who lands 4.81 significant strikes per minute at 48 percent accuracy while also threatening with nearly two takedowns per 15 minutes and over one submission attempt in the same span.
Pimblett, ranked sixth at lightweight, improved to 23-4 with his win at UFC 324. The 31-year-old from Liverpool is one of the sport's most recognizable names and brings genuine finishing ability of his own, landing 5.49 significant strikes per minute at 52 percent accuracy. He also averages more than one submission attempt per 15 minutes, making him dangerous on the ground as well as on the feet.
Topuria's comments position Pimblett as a logical next step, though no official matchup has been announced. A segment of fans, however, have voiced a preference for Topuria to instead face current lightweight champion Justin Gaethje. The American holds a 28-5 record at 37 years old and is the most accurate striker of the three at 58 percent, averaging a remarkable 6.48 significant strikes per minute while carrying championship gold.
Why it matters
- Topuria is the top pound-for-pound fighter and a win over either opponent would cement his lightweight status
- A Pimblett fight carries enormous commercial appeal given the Liverpudlian's global fanbase
- Gaethje holds the lightweight title, making that route the direct path to becoming a two-division champion
- No official booking exists, leaving Topuria's next assignment genuinely open
