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Fight Timing Critical for Topuria-Pimblett
1 Sep
Summary
- Ilia Topuria and Paddy Pimblett have a history of animosity.
- Recent fight outcomes have realigned their career paths.
- Fellow fighter suggests UFC might avoid booking them.
The UFC may finally have the ideal moment to book a fight between Ilia Topuria and Paddy Pimblett. The two lightweight contenders have a history of animosity, having nearly brawled multiple times and even faced off in the Octagon after Topuria's victory at UFC 317.
However, a potential bout seemed unlikely by early 2026. Pimblett had recently lost to Justin Gaethje, while Topuria was slated for a lightweight title fight against Islam Makhachev. A subsequent loss by Topuria to Gaethje changed their career directions.
Following Pimblett's quick submission win over Benoit Saint Denis at UFC 329, the fighters are once again in the same competitive orbit. Yet, fellow lightweight Arman Tsarukyan believes the UFC might hesitate to book the fight, citing a desire to protect both fighters from losses.
Tsarukyan suggested the UFC might opt for easier matchups for both Topuria and Pimblett, possibly positioning Pimblett for another title shot against Max Holloway, whose wrestling he deems a weakness. However, the article urges the UFC to seize the current opportunity, recalling how delays can derail planned matchups.
