Ilia Topuria poses with two UFC belts after victory against Charles of the Bronx. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram.
Who will be the next challenger for the title? Ilia Topuria? That's the question that has been asked since Spanish derrotou Charles of the Bronx No. UFC 317 and became lightweight champion (up to 70,3 kg). Among the main competitors are Paddy Pimblett e Arman Tsarukyan, who disagree on who is truly worthy of facing the champion.
In a video published on his YouTube channel, Paddy Pimblett revealed that the choice of the next challenger to Topuria's title is still to be decided. The Briton said he understands he may be behind in the queue, but he doubts that Arman Tsarukyan deserve more than him.
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"I hope this gets resolved, but I understand I'm ranked 9 or something. So other people probably deserve more, but the 'snobby little kid' certainly doesn't — the rich little kid Arman," he said. Paddy Pimblett.
the answer of Arman Tsarukyan came through social media. In a post on 'X' (formerly Twitter), the Armenian called Pimblett 'trash' and stated that the British man's career in the UFC was facilitated by the directors.
"You're nobody, trash at best. Daddy Dana gave you some old people to build your hype. You're nothing more than that: hype. I've achieved everything in my career; nothing was given to me, you bum. Now sit your ridiculous ass down and wait for Daddy to tell you what to do," Tsarukyan wrote.
You're a nobody, a trash can at most. Daddy Dana fed you a couple senior citizens to build your hype. That's all you are, hype. I earned everything in my career, nothing was handed to me you boom. Now sit your goofy ass down and wait until Daddy tells you what to do https://t.co/xOFXQ9cSm1
— Arman Tsarukyan UFC (@ArmanUfc) August 11, 2025
Justin Gaethje is also in contention to face Ilia Topuria
Another name in the fight for the title is Justin gaethje. The American reinforced that his plan is to face Ilia Topuria in November. The former BMF champion completely rejects the possibility of facing another fighter and stated that if the UFC chooses that path, it will be a clear sign that the organization no longer has serious plans for him.
"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 in an interview with ESPN.
Paddy Pimblett takes the lead in the race to face Ilia Topuria
Despite the fight at the top of the division, everything indicates that Paddy Pimblett is ahead in this race. After knocking out charles do brox No. UFC 317, the Spanish champion called the British to step into the octagon, and the two engaged in a tense staredown, including a shove, fueling the promotion for a possible duel.
IT'S GETTING HEATED #UFC317
Is Ilia Topuria vs Paddy Pimblett next?! pic.twitter.com/sWIEMbquQi
- UFC Europe (@UFCEurope) June 29, 2025
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