Former UFC champion advises Ilia Topuria on his next fight: 'If you're smart, you'll take this fight'

Ilia Topuria is undefeated in MMA. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @iliatopuria

Dominick Cruz there is no doubt about who Ilia Topuria must choose as the next challenger for the UFC lightweight (up to 65,7 kg) belt. After knock off Charles of the Bronx No. UFC 317, the Spaniard saw a line of possible opponents form before his eyes, among them Paddy Pimblett, Arman Tsarukyan e Justin gaethje.

Appearing on the 'Anik & Florian Podcast,' Cruz argued that MMA is a money-driven sport and that athletes are ultimately prize fighters. According to the former champion, among Topuria's opponent options: Paddy Pimblett emerges as the 'biggest prize' due to the potential financial return and visibility it offers.

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"This business is about cashing checks every time. We're prize fighters. You put a prize on the table, we take it, you win or you lose. Who's the biggest prize? Between these three (Pimblett, Tsarukyan, and Gaethje), we all know the answer (Pimblett)." Dominick Cruz.

In the former champion's view, facing Pimblett would be the smartest choice for Topuria. He emphasized that the Englishman promotes himself well, speaks a lot, and has significant media appeal, making him the most lucrative rival for the Spaniard's first title defense.

"So, if you're smart, you'll take this fight as if this guy were the moneybag. Now, I'm not saying the others aren't good, but the problem is that Paddy promotes it, he says, he has a very large package. It makes sense to make more money on this fight," Cruz concluded.

There is still no confirmation on who will be the first opponent of Ilia Topuria as lightweight champion. However, everything indicates that Paddy Pimblett is also the Spaniard's favorite name, since, right after winning the title in UFC 317, he called the British fighter for a face-off in the octagon, starting the promotion of a possible duel.

Ilia Topuria just shoved Paddy Pimblett after knocking out Oliveira

“Bring that blonde bitch here!” pic.twitter.com/qvqL3IGjoL

— Happy Punch (@HappyPunch) June 29, 2025