Paddy Pimblett downplays Tsarukyan and targets a duel with the former UFC BMF champion: 'He's a fighter'

Paddy Pimblett in UFC victory. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

After Ilia Topuria close the doors Regarding a possible confrontation with Arman Tsarukyan, now it was Paddy Pimblett's turn to downplay the chances of facing the Armenian in the UFC. During an interview with 'One On One MMA', Pimblett stated that he prefers to face established and popular fighters, a profile that the current number one lightweight (up to 70,3 kg) does not yet fit.

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The Briton went so far as to compare Arman Tsarukyan to Justin Gaethje, and in his view, the American represents a more exciting and prestigious fight, while Arman has not yet reached legendary status in MMA.

“Everyone knows that Justin Gaethje is a hell of a fighter and a legend. Arman isn’t. So I’d love to face another legend, Justin Gaethje,” said Pimblett.

Justin Gaethje rules out fight against Paddy Pimblett

Justin Gaethje won by decision at UFC 313. Photo: Reproduction X/UFC News

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Despite Paddy Pimblett expressing interest in facing Justin Gaethje, the feeling is not reciprocated. In an interview with ESPN, the American reiterated that his focus is on a duel against Ilia Topuria. Former BMF champion Gaethje completely rejected the possibility of facing the Briton and stated that if the UFC goes down that path, it will be a clear sign that the organization no longer has serious plans for his career.

"I hope it's against Ilia, I hope it's in November, and I hope it's at Madison Square Garden. That's what I'm banking on and trying to express, but you never know with the UFC. I can only worry about what's within my reach, and that's how ready I'll be for my next fight... Definitely not (I'll fight Pimblett). If that's the path they want me to take, then I don't think they need me anymore," Gaethje said.

Topuria also rules out facing Arman Tsarukyan

The UFC lightweight champion insists he will not give Arman Tsarukyan a title shot. Ilia Topuria has once again slammed the door in the Russian's face.

“Look, when you put so much effort into the game and you have a guy in front of you who you don’t know if he can get out of the fight, that’s not good for us. It’s not like, ‘Oh, my back!’, man, I don’t care at all,” said Ilia Topuria in an interview with the 'Nelk Boys'.

Ilia Topuria raised her voice and went so far as to say that she would rather vacate the belt than fight Arman Tsarukyan.

"They're going to give him a fight before the title fight because there's no way around it. I'm the world champion, I'll never give him a chance to fight for the title. I'll be like, look, if that's the case, take my belt. I'm not doing that," Topuria said.

The response was not long in coming. Tsarukyan took to social media and, via 'X' (formerly Twitter), questioned the champion's mindset in making such statements.

“Imagine calling yourself a champion, but already looking for a way out. You can vacate it, or I’ll take it. Either way, it’s mine,” wrote Arman Tsarukyan.