When Paddy Pimblett was at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas earlier this month supporting teammate Nathan Fletcher on the UFC Vegas 108 fight card, he was repeatedly asked about his next opponent, fueling ongoing lightweight contender drama. The British fighter revealed on his YouTube channel that he had no clear answer on when or if he would face UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria, despite mounting public interest.
History Between Pimblett and Topuria Adds Heat to Their Rivalry
Pimblett and Topuria’s rivalry goes back months, marked by intense encounters including a physical altercation at a London hotel during UFC Fight Night 204 in March 2022, and a near confrontation at the UFC 282 Press Conference later that year. Both fighters have expressed eagerness for a matchup, but Pimblett acknowledged that other contenders ahead of him in rankings should get priority for a title shot.
Sharp Criticism Directed at Top Contenders and Escalating Tensions
Known as “The Baddy,” Pimblett did not hold back his harsh opinions on fellow lightweight contenders. He expressed frustration with fighters like Arman Tsarukyan, labeling him “posh boy” and dismissing his title shot chances, while accusing Tsarukyan of trying to buy his way into fights.
Little rich boy Arman showing how desperate he is offering him (Topuria) a million pounds to fight him. Spoiled rich baby. Trying to pay his way out of things. That’s why he quit when he was making weight in a bath like a little b*tch,
Pimblett said.
Arman is irrelevant. No one cares about him.
Pimblett also addressed comments from Justin Gaethje, noting respect for him but highlighting Gaethje’s reluctance to accept a fight with Pimblett.
As I always say, I’ve got nothing but respect for Justin [Gaethje], but I keep seeing in interviews him saying he doesn’t want to fight me. I think the only fight other than make is me and Ilia,
Pimblett said.
Further adding to the contentious atmosphere, Pimblett called out Dan Hooker, whose recent remarks disappointed him.
Seen Dan Hooker talking sh*t the other day, as well. I used to like Dan Hooker. Now you can eat sh*t.
Potential Matches and Future of Lightweight Contender Drama
Pimblett expressed hope to face Topuria soon, referring to their bout with a mix of humor and intensity by calling Topuria “the chorizo” and describing the fight as highly anticipated, especially by American fans. Despite his bold challenges, Pimblett showed awareness of his current ranking position around ninth, understanding that others might be more deserving of a title opportunity at this moment.
Hopefully it is going to be me versus the chorizo next. I think that’s what all the Americans want because every American I bumped into keeps saying, ‘When are you going to smash that sausage’s head in?’ I’m hoping that gets sorted. But I understand that I am like rank 9 or something, so other people probably are more deserving, but posh boy (Arman Tsarukyan) definitely isn’t,
Pimblett said.
This outspoken stance keeps Paddy Pimblett lightweight contender drama at the center of UFC lightweight division discussions, signaling that fiery clashes and heated exchanges are likely to continue shaping the path toward a future title fight.