Topuria is the UFC lightweight champion. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/iliatopuria
The rivalry between Paddy Pimblett and Ilia Topuria has gained another chapter full of provocations. Considered one of the top rising stars in the UFC's lightweight division (up to 70,3 kg), the Briton once again attacked the former champion, questioning his ability to compete against naturally larger athletes. According to 'The Baddy', the Georgian doesn't have the physical structure to remain in the category and, sooner or later, will end up returning to featherweight (up to 65,7 kg).
In an interview with the Spinnin' Backfist channel on YouTube, Pimblett was direct when commenting on a possible fight against his rival. He stated that a confrontation between the two would highlight the size difference and make Topuria realize that he belongs in the old division.
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“ Ilia Topuria is a fat featherweight, he’s not a lightweight. If I fight him, people will realize he’ll go back to the 145-pound (70,3kg) category because they’ll realize how small he is for the weight division,” the Englishman stated.
The statement reinforces the animosity between the two, who have exchanged provocations on several occasions, both in interviews and on social media. Since moving up to the lightweight division, 'El Matador' has faced questions about how he would handle naturally larger opponents. The Briton, in turn, believes that this physical difference will be decisive should the long-awaited duel finally take place.
Despite the criticism, Topuria remains one of the most popular names in the UFC. Even after his recent loss to Justin Gaethje at UFC White House , the Georgian is considered one of the main contenders to return to the title fight in the division. On the other side, Pimblett seeks a significant victory to solidify his place among the elite of the division.
A potential confrontation gains momentum precisely because of the rivalry built up over the last few years. Beyond its sporting importance, the fight has the potential to become one of the event's biggest commercial successes, fueled by the constant exchanges of barbs between the two.
Next step for English: UFC 329
Paddy Pimblett lost to Gaethje at UFC 324. Photo: Reproduction/X/UFC
Pimblett will headline UFC 329 in Las Vegas on July 11 against Benoit Saint Denis . The fight is seen as crucial for both fighters' aspirations in the lightweight division and could put the winner very close to a title shot.
While the Briton seeks a high-impact victory to get back on the winning track after his loss to Justin Gaethje at UFC 324 in January, and to firmly establish himself among the top names in the division and strengthen his candidacy for the top spot in the category.
Saint Denis is trying to maintain his momentum and consolidate his good form against a highly prominent opponent within the organization. Given the current state of the division, whoever emerges victorious should definitively return to the radar of the main contenders for the title.
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