Paddy Pimblett continues to insist on earning a UFC title shot following Ilia Topuria’s recent lightweight championship victory at UFC 317, which took place in June. As one of the key contenders seeking to dethrone the new champion, Pimblett is making his case with increasing urgency amid a competitive field of fighters eager for the opportunity.
Topuria secured his status as a two-division champion by knocking out Charles Oliveira during International Fight Week, but the timing and opponent for his first defense at 155 pounds remain undecided. Alongside Pimblett, Arman Tsarukyan and Justin Gaethje are also positioned as leading challengers, yet Pimblett’s vocal demands and public declarations continue to keep him in the spotlight.
Recent Victories and Rivalries Fuel Pimblett’s Title Shot Campaign
Following an impressive victory over Michael Chandler at UFC 314, Pimblett remains undefeated within the UFC octagon. Despite the win, many observers feel his resume does not yet justify a direct title shot as the number nine-ranked lightweight contender. However, Pimblett leverages a longstanding rivalry with Topuria, which traces back to 2022, enhancing the intrigue of a potential matchup between the two fighters.
The Scouser encountered Topuria in a face-off after UFC 317’s main event, reinforcing the anticipation of a future meeting. Dana White and UFC officials have not revealed plans for Topuria’s next fight, but Pimblett is adamant that he deserves to be chosen over Gaethje and Tsarukyan. Recently, Pimblett posted a video on social media highlighting reasons why he should be granted the title shot, emphasizing his readiness with a caption stating, “Ready whenever.”
Voices of Opposition Question Pimblett’s Readiness for a Title Challenge
Despite Pimblett’s public calls for a title bout, skepticism remains strong among some former fighters and analysts. Al Iaquinta, a former UFC title challenger, openly expressed doubts about Pimblett’s qualifications, pointing to the level of competition faced so far in his UFC career. Speaking to Bloody Elbow, Iaquinta argued that Pimblett has yet to face opponents of a caliber deserving of immediate title contention.
I hope they don’t give it to Paddy, They can’t give it to Paddy.—Al Iaquinta, Former Title Challenger
Iaquinta elaborated that Pimblett’s recent matchups have been against fighters struggling with losing streaks, implying favorable matchmaking rather than earned positioning. However, Iaquinta acknowledged the influence of pay-per-view appeal in matchmaking decisions, noting the significance of promotional intrigue and existing bad blood between Topuria and Pimblett.
But there is the bad blood (with Topuria), They got the bad blood. Bad blood goes a long way. Selling pay-per-views, at the end of the day, that’s all the UFC really cares about. It’s not about who’s rightfully deserving of it, but more who can sell the more pay-per-views.—Al Iaquinta, Former Title Challenger
The UFC Championship Picture Remains Uncertain as Fighters Wait
While Dana White and the UFC have yet to confirm Topuria’s next opponent, the lightweight title scene is filled with competing narratives and contender claims. Pimblett’s determination adds to the tension surrounding who will step up first to challenge for the belt, making the landscape unpredictable. With established fighters like Gaethje and Tsarukyan also in pursuit, the UFC faces a strategic choice balancing merit and marketability.
As “The Baddy” pushes his campaign on social media and in public forums, the decision will likely hinge on a mix of competitive readiness and fan interest. The outcome of this choice could shape the direction of the division and influence UFC’s promotional approach moving forward, as the lightweight champion prepares for his upcoming defense.