Ilia Topuria surprises by talking about the fight between Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett: 'The UFC has plans for him'

Ilia Topuria face-off with Paddy Pimblett at UFC 317. Photo: Reproduction/UFC

Away from the octagon while preparing for a legal battle with his ex-wife, Ilia Topuria continues to analyze the current state of the lightweight division (up to 70,3 kg). With an interim title fight between Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett on the horizon, the undisputed champion believes that a duel with the Briton seems like the natural path to follow upon his return, leaving the American aside.

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According to the Georgian/Spanish fighter, Gaethje would hardly be able to interfere with the UFC's plans to capitalize on the existing rivalry between him and Pimblett, so even a victory for the American might not be enough to guarantee a fight for the undisputed title.

“If Justin Gaethje wins, the UFC has different plans that I can’t talk about at this time. I don’t know how capable he will be of ruining the UFC’s and Paddy’s plans,” El Matador said in an interview with Spanish journalist Carlos Legaspi last Sunday (14).

Ilia Topuria reveals the UFC has different plans for Justin Gaethje if he wins against Paddy.

"If Justin Gaethje wins, the UFC has different plans that I can't talk about at this moment. I don't know how capable he will be of ruining the plans of the UFC and Paddy."

(via… pic.twitter.com/7DS7AS3rUJ

— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) December 14, 2025

Paddy Pimblett and Ilia Topuria are rivals

Paddy Pimblett and Ilia Topuria argued at the UFC 282 press conference (Photo: Reproduction/YouTube)

Two representatives of the new generation and popular in the European market, Paddy Pimblett and Ilia Topuria had problems even when they were young, up-and-coming fighters. The two had an intense argument at the UFC 282 press conference in 2022. Since then, they have exchanged provocations on several occasions, in addition to facing off in the center of the octagon after El Matador knocked out Charles do Bronx in the first round.

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