Paddy Pimblett‘s position in the UFC lightweight rankings rose unexpectedly after UFC 319, sparking widespread speculation about a potential title push. Although Pimblett has not fought since April and was not featured on the UFC 319 card, his ascent to No. 7 in the lightweight division has intrigued fans and analysts alike.
Pimblett Climbs Lightweight Rankings Without Recent Fight Activity
Known as “The Baddy,” Paddy Pimblett secured the No. 9 ranking after his win against Michael Chandler at UFC 314. Despite not competing recently, Pimblett jumped two spots, overtaking Mateusz Gamrot and Beneil Dariush to reach seventh place. This move put him just behind fighters like Dan Hooker, Justin Gaethje, Charles Oliveira, Max Holloway, and Arman Tsarukyan, many of whom have previously contested for UFC titles.
Possible Title Contention and Rivalry with Ilia Topuria
The UFC appears to be setting the stage for a significant showdown involving Pimblett. Dana White has denied that the recent face-off between Pimblett and Ilia Topuria at UFC 317 was prearranged, but it certainly hinted at a major England-versus-Spain matchup. Among the top lightweight prospects, Pimblett stands out as one who has yet to compete for the championship belt.
Despite impressive records, several other top contenders have struggled critically in title fights: Justin Gaethje has lost both his attempts, Charles Oliveira stands at one win and two defeats including a fight with Topuria, Max Holloway was defeated by Topuria at featherweight, and Arman Tsarukyan missed his UFC 311 title opportunity due to injury and has since been unable to regain favor.
Dan Hooker, ranked just ahead of Pimblett, has won three straight fights but has encountered injuries that have limited his recent activity. Given this, it seems unlikely that Hooker will leapfrog Pimblett for a title shot anytime soon.
Impact of the Lightweight Division’s Shifting Landscape
Positioning Pimblett for a clash against reigning lightweight champion Ilia Topuria could influence multiple divisions significantly. “El Matador” Topuria is preparing for a high-profile superfight with former champion Islam Makhachev. If Makhachev captures the welterweight title, he may aim to reclaim the lightweight throne as a double champion.
The sequence of matchups involving Makhachev, Topuria, and Pimblett hinges on whether UFC’s subtle ranking changes are an intentional move to build Pimblett toward a career-defining title fight. This potential shift would mark a pivotal moment for “The Baddy,” who has steadily gained momentum despite a quieter recent schedule.
The lightweight division’s evolving hierarchy, combined with Pimblett’s unexpected rise, has created a tense atmosphere filled with anticipation among MMA fans and stakeholders, as many watch closely to see how the championship picture will develop.