Kamaru Usman expressed concerns about the current state of the 155-pound division as discussions increase around a potential title bout between Paddy Pimblett and Ilia Topuria. Usman suggested that Justin Gaethje would be a more fitting opponent for Topuria, citing the busy landscape where many contenders are eager to challenge the Georgian-Spaniard.
On Saturday, Ilia Topuria solidified his position as the first undefeated two-division champion by delivering a swift first-round knockout against Charles Oliveira during UFC 317’s main event. After his victory, Topuria engaged in a tense stare-down with Pimblett, signaling a possible future matchup between the two fighters.
Usman Voices Skepticism Over Pimblett’s Title Shot
During a recent episode of the Pound 4 Pound podcast hosted by Henry Cejudo, Usman shared his doubts about Pimblett’s readiness for a title fight. He emphasized that Pimblett has yet to face highly ranked opponents like Arman Tsarukyan, Justin Gaethje, Dustin Poirier, or Charles Oliveira, making it hard to justify him jumping ahead in line.
“It’s a mess right now at 155 pounds. It’s very difficult to say Paddy Pimblett, you’re next up when you haven’t fought Arman Tsarukyan, Justin Gaethje, Dustin Poirier, Charles Oliveira. I understand Arman weighed in as a backup… Who’s done more than Justin Gaethje as far as favors for the UFC?” —Kamaru Usman, Former Welterweight Champion
Cejudo responded by highlighting Tsarukyan’s deserved place as the top contender, agreeing that fairness should be maintained in matchmaking even as fan interest grows around Pimblett.
“That’s not realistic, but the UFC moves on, bro. This is how you matchmake it. It does have to be Justin Gaethje versus Paddy Pimblett. And you do have to be fair. Give it to Arman. Arman does deserve that shot, bro. Like straight up.” —Henry Cejudo, Former Two-Division UFC Champion
Demetrious Johnson Supports Tsarukyan for Next Title Opportunity
Adding to the debate, MMA legend Demetrious Johnson publicly backed Arman Tsarukyan as the rightful next challenger for the lightweight championship instead of Pimblett. Johnson pointed out that although the Pimblett vs. Topuria fight might attract more attention, it undermines the integrity of the rankings system.
“Obviously Arman Tsarukyan is the No. 1 contender, but they’re forcing this fight with Paddy Pimblett vs. Ilia Topuria just because it’s probably going to sell more. But I think the rightful person who should be getting the next title shot at lightweight is Arman Tsarukyan… What’s the point of having rankings if they’re not going to abide by their No. 1 contender? Let’s just get rid of all the rankings, and let’s just do a poll of what the fans want to see, and let’s just run the event like that.” —Demetrious Johnson, Former UFC Flyweight Champion
Implications for the Lightweight Division’s Future
The current turmoil in the 155-pound division highlights a growing divide between fan-driven matchups and traditional ranking-based title shots. Kamaru Usman’s remarks underline ongoing frustrations among fighters and analysts who want a clearer path for elite contenders like Tsarukyan and Gaethje. Meanwhile, Topuria’s dominant rise poses new challenges for matchmaking decisions.
As the UFC navigates these complexities, the direction chosen will likely shape the competitive landscape and perceptions of fairness within one of its most talent-rich divisions. Observers will be watching closely to see if merit or marketability guides upcoming title fights in the lightweight category.