Paddy Pimblett is ready to face Ilia Topuria in the lightweight division following his impressive victory at UFC 314.
During the co-main event in Miami, Pimblett dominated and defeated Michael Chandler, extending his UFC record to 7-0.
Fans are eager to see Pimblett’s potential clash with former featherweight champion Ilia Topuria inside the octagon. Pimblett expressed his interest in facing Topuria after calling out other top fighters like Justin Gaethje, Charles Oliveira, and Arman Tsarukyan in his post-fight interview with Joe Rogan.
“I completely forgot about him,” Pimblett admitted. “I didn’t even mention him in the cage… that’s how insignificant he is. I am ranked higher than him in the lightweight division, so I would gladly welcome him to 155. However, it seems like he is waiting for a title shot.”
“But the way I handled Chandler, that’s the strategy to defeat him. I will apply the same tactics to Topuria as I did to Chandler.”
Pimblett aims to compete for the lightweight title in 2026 by securing another win. Regardless of his opponent, whether it’s Islam Makhachev or someone else, the rising star is determined to do whatever it takes.
“There are talks of Islam potentially retiring after a few more defenses, or if [Jack Della Maddalena] defeats Belal Muhammad, he might move up to challenge for the welterweight title,” Pimblett shared. “I am preparing to face the best, so I am training for Islam Makhachev, but he might not even hold the title when I am ready.”
“We have to let things unfold. I will face whoever is in front of me. Whoever the UFC assigns me… that’s my next opponent, and I will be ready for whoever that is.”