Topuria was punished by Gaethje in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC
Set to face Benoit Saint Denis in the co-main event of UFC 329 , this Saturday (11), in Las Vegas (USA), Paddy Pimblett commented again on the defeat to Justin Gaethje and reignited the controversy surrounding the duel. The Briton, who was defeated by unanimous decision at UFC 324, in January, stated that he suffered illegal blows during the fight and took the opportunity to provoke Ilia Topuria , former lightweight champion (up to 70,3 kg).
During the event's 'media day', held last Wednesday, Pimblett again complained about his loss to Justin Gaethje and compared his situation to Topuria's in the lightweight title fight at the White House . According to the Englishman, the Georgian didn't suffer any illegal blows during the fight, but ended up absorbing more punches than he did.
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“All the damage to my face was caused by a finger poke in the eye with a right hand, it wasn’t just a finger poke in the eye, lad. I felt a thumb touch my brain. Did Ilia get a finger poke? I don’t think so, lad, he just got his face smashed. I’m going to punch him in the head for him,” the Briton stated.
In addition to once again questioning Justin Gaethje 's performance , 'The Baddy' used the opportunity to take a jab at Topuria, with whom he has a long-standing rivalry. The two have exchanged numerous provocations in recent years and even got into a backstage altercation at a UFC event in London, fueling expectations for a possible future confrontation.
Despite the complaints, the result of the fight against the American was upheld by the organization and there were no official changes after the bout. Now, Pimblett tries to turn the page against Benoit Saint Denis . A victory over the Frenchman could put him back among the main contenders for the lightweight title and bring him closer to a highly anticipated duel against his rival Ilia Topuria.
Next step for English: UFC 329
Paddy Pimblett lost to Gaethje at UFC 324. Photo: Reproduction/X/UFC
Pimblett faces Saint Denis in the co-main event of UFC 329 , in a fight considered crucial for both fighters' aspirations in the lightweight division. The winner should make a significant leap in the race for the title.
After suffering the first defeat of his career in the event against Justin Gaethje , the Briton seeks a convincing performance to get back on the winning track, reaffirm his status among the top names in the division and strengthen his candidacy for a future title fight.
On the other side, Saint Denis is trying to maintain his momentum and consolidate his rise against one of the organization's most popular athletes. With the lightweight division constantly in motion, whoever leaves the octagon with their arm raised should definitely enter the organization's radar to face the elite of the category.
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