Paddy Pimblett is eager to fight Justin Gaethje to secure a title shot but believes it would be more advantageous if Ilia Topuria wins the lightweight championship, as it could lead to a direct title fight with Topuria.
Paddy Pimblett dreams of a showdown with Justin Gaethje for a title shot. However, he knows if Ilia Topuria snags the lightweight belt in June, he might skip another fight altogether.
Fresh off a decisive win over Michael Chandler at UFC 314, Pimblett’s in a prime spot. With his rival Topuria moving to 155 to clash with Charles Oliveira at UFC 317, and Poirier facing Holloway at UFC 318 for the BMF title, Gaethje might just be left out.
Chatting with TNT Sports, Pimblett shared his thoughts on the 155 division. “Yeah, that’d be nice [to fight Gaethje],” he mused. But he also considers, “It’s probably better if Ilia wins the belt… then I could just fight him.”
He believes a Topuria victory could make him the first title defense, which he sees as a career boost. Gaethje, after beating Rafael Fiziev at UFC 313, hoped for a title shot but will watch Topuria and Oliveira instead.
Even if the UFC wants another fight from Pimblett, he’s eager to take on the former interim champ. “I know for a fact if I beat Gaethje, I’m next in line,” he stated confidently.
Reflecting on his recent victory over Chandler, Pimblett added, “I think I finish Justin Gaethje.” The anticipation is palpable.