Fans Split on Paddy Pimblett's Next Opponent Among Topuria, Tsarukyan and Oliveira

Debate is swirling among MMA fans over who Paddy Pimblett should fight next, with three high-profile lightweight names emerging as the leading candidates: Ilia Topuria, Arman Tsarukyan, and Charles Oliveira. The UFC reportedly views a Pimblett fight as a self-selling proposition, and the fanbase is clearly engaged in picking his next dance partner.

Pimblett, 31, carries a 24-4-0 record and sits sixth in the lightweight rankings. The Liverpool native is one of the division's most active strikers, landing 5.48 significant strikes per minute at 52 percent accuracy, and he supplements his stand-up with 1.4 submission attempts per 15 minutes.

Topuria represents arguably the most explosive option on the shortlist. The 29-year-old Spaniard holds a 17-1-0 record and is currently ranked second at lightweight, while also sitting atop the pound-for-pound rankings at number one. He averages 4.81 significant strikes per minute and nearly two takedowns per 15 minutes, making him a well-rounded threat at 170 cm tall with a 175 cm reach.

Oliveira brings veteran star power to the conversation. The Brazilian, now 36, boasts a 37-11-0 career record and is ranked third in the division, with an 11th-place pound-for-pound position. Known for his submission artistry, he averages 2.6 submission attempts per 15 minutes alongside 2.22 takedowns per 15 minutes, presenting a dangerous grappling puzzle for any opponent.

Why it matters

• A win over any of these three names would dramatically elevate Pimblett's ranking from sixth and push him into title contention
• Topuria at number one pound-for-pound offers the highest-profile matchup; Oliveira at third offers a proven submission specialist challenge
• All three opponents are ranked above Pimblett, meaning the style contrasts — grappling, counter-striking, power punching — each carry unique risk for "The Baddy"