Paddy Pimblett has made it clear that his upcoming fight plans exclude Arman Tsarukyan, despite Tsarukyan’s rise to number one contender and scheduled rematch against Islam Makhachev for the lightweight title at <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/mma/ufc/”>UFC 311 last January. Tsarukyan’s opportunity was derailed by a back injury just a day before the fight, leading to Ilia Topuria capturing the now-vacant lightweight belt after Makhachev moved up to welterweight. This has left Tsarukyan’s status uncertain, while Pimblett remains focused on challenging Topuria or potentially taking on Justin Gaethje as his next opponent.

Background on Lightweight Title Changes and Rivalries

After the injury forced Tsarukyan out of his rematch with Makhachev, the dynamics in the lightweight division shifted dramatically. Ilia Topuria claimed the vacant title, creating a direct rivalry with Pimblett, who has an undefeated 7-0 UFC record. Pimblett’s interest in fighting Topuria is fueled by their ongoing feud and the strategic importance of facing the new champion. However, when considering alternative opponents, Pimblett has voiced a clear preference for Gaethje, believing Gaethje would bring a more exciting and high-profile fight.

Pimblett’s Comments on Opponent Preferences

Discussing his potential foes on the One On One show, Pimblett expressed frustration with the attention Tsarukyan receives and emphasized his willingness to fight anyone but has a clear favorite. He said,

“I’d fight anyone as you know, I’m not arsed, Arman’s a very good fighter but no one cares about him, you know what I mean? People just look at him and think, ‘Yeah, you shit yourself fighting Islam. You talk a big game but you don’t back it up.’”

—Paddy Pimblett

He went on to contrast Tsarukyan with Gaethje, highlighting Gaethje’s reputation for intense, entertaining fights:

“But everyone knows Justin Gaethje’s a f*cking banger. Everyone knows that if you’re fighting Justin Gaethje, you’re going to have a fight. And he’s a legend. Arman isn’t. So I’d love to fight another legend in Justin Gaethje.”

—Paddy Pimblett

Gaethje’s Response and Current Stance

Despite Pimblett’s enthusiasm, Justin Gaethje has shown less interest in a matchup with Pimblett. After his recent win over Rafael Fiziev, Gaethje spoke to ESPN about his future, stating,

“If that’s the route that [the UFC] want me to take, then I don’t believe that they need me anymore.”

—Justin Gaethje

He believes his recent performances justify a shot at the lightweight title held by Topuria, rather than taking a fight he perceives as unnecessary.

Pimblett’s Outlook on Title Opportunities and the UFC Landscape

Aside from his opponent preferences, Pimblett has also vocalized his belief that a bout between himself and Ilia Topuria would be the UFC’s most compelling fight option now that Jon Jones has retired. He commented,

“Now that Jon Jones is retired, I think the biggest fight the UFC can make would be me vs. Ilia,”

and added,

“Now there’s no Jon Jones and they can’t do him vs. Tom [Aspinall]. It wouldn’t surprise me if I’ve got the belt in six-to-12 months.”

—Paddy Pimblett

Pimblett’s comments reflect a mix of determination and impatience, as he navigates the uncertainties in the lightweight division and aims to secure a title fight soon. His preference for Justin Gaethje over Tsarukyan highlights the tension around matchmaking decisions in the UFC and the desire for high-profile, fan-pleasing bouts. As the division continues to evolve, Pimblett’s next moves will be crucial not only for his own career but also for the lightweight championship landscape.

Our Reader’s Queries

Q. How is Justin Gaethje so powerful?

A. Many factors contribute to Justin Gaethje’s reputation as a powerful force in combat sports. His fitness is exceptional, allowing him to maintain speed over long distances. He also has remarkable mental resilience, enabling him to ignore pain and distractions effortlessly.