Ilia Topuria aims to become the new lightweight champion at UFC 317 and plans a potential first title defense against Paddy Pimblett, while also considering the dynamics involving Justin Gaethje and Arman Tsarukyan in the division.
Ilia Topuria’s got big plans. He’s eyeing the lightweight championship at UFC 317 and dreaming up future matchups already.
Facing Charles Oliveira on Saturday, Topuria’s second bout at 155 pounds is crucial. But he knows the real buzz might be a showdown with Paddy Pimblett. Remember that scuffle they had in London? Yeah, the tension’s only grown.
Topuria’s already calling for Pimblett to be his first title defense. He even suggested a path for Pimblett to earn it.
“If he wants the title, he should fight Justin Gaethje,” Topuria mentioned at UFC 317 media day. “Arman [Tsarukyan] would probably beat him. Justin’s his best shot.”
Tsarukyan, the backup for the main event, has had his share of words with Topuria. He was supposed to fight Islam Makhachev in January, but a back injury sidelined him.
UFC CEO Dana White insists Tsarukyan needs a win before another title shot. Yet, he hasn’t fought since the Makhachev bout fell through.
Gaethje, on the other hand, plans to wait for the Topuria vs. Oliveira winner. Fighting Pimblett might not be on his agenda.
Despite Gaethje’s plans, Topuria’s fixated on Pimblett after his recent win over Michael Chandler. The animosity between them could spark a blockbuster event.
“That fight could be one of the biggest in UFC history,” Topuria said about Pimblett. “Nothing personal, it’s all professional.”
But first, Topuria has to tackle Oliveira in the UFC 317 main event. He’s confident, predicting a finish like he’s done with legends Volkanovski and Holloway.
Oliveira’s ready, though, and plans to counter Topuria’s strategy. Topuria’s unfazed.
“He’ll try,” Topuria commented on Oliveira’s game plan. “He’s got to be confident. That’s his job.”