Paddy Pimblett has issued a direct challenge to UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria, publicly urging him to vacate the title if he cannot commit to a swift return to the Octagon. Pimblett’s call comes amid growing uncertainty over Topuria’s availability, with the champion currently on a personal hiatus and facing potential delays from ongoing legal proceedings.
“If he’s not going to fight soon, he should do the right thing and give up the belt,” Pimblett stated, drawing a parallel to the frustrating situation endured by Tom Aspinall. “We all saw what happened with Aspinall waiting around. I don’t want that for this division. We need an active champion.”
Pimblett’s stance intensifies as he prepares for his own massive opportunity—a showdown with Justin Gaethje at UFC 324 for the interim lightweight championship. The Liverpudlian argues that clarity is essential for the division’s top contenders and that a logjam at the top benefits no one. He has made it clear his ultimate goal is to unify the belts by eventually facing Topuria.
Topuria’s absence, reportedly linked to personal matters and a complex divorce case, has left a cloud over the 155-pound title picture. Pimblett’s public pressure adds a new layer of drama, framing the champion’s next move as a test of his commitment to the sport’s competitive integrity.
Interim Stakes: Pimblett’s Path to Gold at UFC 324
Paddy Pimblett’s upcoming interim title fight with Justin Gaethje is now framed as a solution to the division’s stagnation. A victory would not only crown an interim champion but also position Pimblett as the clear next challenger for Topuria’s undisputed crown—provided it remains active.
This aggressive move by Pimblett highlights a growing impatience among top-tier UFC fighters with prolonged champion absences. By invoking the Tom Aspinall title wait as a cautionary tale, Pimblett is rallying for a system where titles are defended regularly, or vacated, to ensure the sport’s most exciting matches can happen without unnecessary delay.
Frequently Asked Questions: Pimblett vs. Topuria Tension
Why is Paddy Pimblett telling Ilia Topuria to vacate the title?
Pimblett believes that if Ilia Topuria’s return is delayed for a significant period due to personal or legal issues, he should vacate the UFC lightweight title to keep the division moving and avoid a stagnant championship picture.
What is delaying Ilia Topuria’s UFC return?
Topuria is on a personal break, and his timeline is further complicated by ongoing legal proceedings related to his divorce, which could extend his time away from competition.
Who is Paddy Pimblett fighting next?
Pimblett is set to face Justin Gaethje at UFC 324 for the interim UFC lightweight championship, a fight he sees as crucial for bringing clarity to the division.
What is Pimblett’s history with Ilia Topuria?
The two have a simmering rivalry. Pimblett has expressed a desire to settle their differences in the Octagon, stating he wants to fight Topuria for the undisputed title once the champion is ready to return.
What happened with Tom Aspinall that Pimblett is referencing?
Tom Aspinall, as interim heavyweight champion, endured a long, uncertain wait for a unification bout that never materialised, a situation Pimblett wants to avoid in the lightweight division.
