The UFC lightweight division has no shortage of elite talent, but perhaps no potential matchup in 2025 carries the same explosive personal animosity and blockbuster appeal as the brewing war between Paddy Pimblett and Ilia Topuria. Ever since Topuria’s title-winning performance at UFC 317, speculation has swirled around who would be next to challenge the newly crowned king.
At first glance, Paddy “The Baddy” Pimblett seemed like the obvious pick. He’s popular, on a win streak, and shares a well-documented rivalry with the champion. But UFC President Dana White poured cold water on the idea in the immediate aftermath of UFC 317, claiming more time was needed before a decision could be made.
That hasn’t stopped Pimblett from adding fuel to the fire—and the result is starting to feel eerily reminiscent of another iconic UFC rivalry: Khabib Nurmagomedov vs. Conor McGregor.
Pimblett Says: “This Is Khabib vs. McGregor 2.0”
Never one to mince words, Paddy Pimblett recently spoke out about the potential Topuria clash, noting the genuine hatred between them.
“We already have history. You don’t need to sell this fight—it sells itself,” Pimblett said. “It’s two people who truly hate each other. We haven’t had that since Khabib vs. McGregor. I absolutely hate him.”
That sentiment goes far beyond standard trash talk. Pimblett even outlined a disturbing vision for how he wants the fight to play out:
“I don’t want a quick finish. I want to batter him for nearly five full rounds. I want to land 700 elbows and leave him disfigured.”
This level of vitriol makes it clear—this isn’t just business. It’s personal.
The Origins of the Rivalry: UFC London, 2022
The hostility between Topuria and Pimblett began in March 2022 during UFC Fight Night: Volkov vs. Aspinall. What started as a war of words online escalated into a real-life confrontation in a hotel hallway—caught on UFC cameras—when Pimblett allegedly threw a hand sanitizer bottle at Topuria during a verbal argument.
The source of the conflict? A series of controversial statements Pimblett made, including remarks about Georgia, Topuria’s home country.
“He tried to say I mocked the fact that Georgia was bombed, but I didn’t even know there was a war,” Pimblett defended. “I never said what he’s claiming. He’s still going on podcasts saying I said I’m happy kids died. That’s a lie.”
The confrontation was brief but symbolic—a preview of chaos to come.
“He tried to punch me, I slipped it, and I threw a hand sanitizer bottle that hit him in the head,” Pimblett recalled. “If my mates had been there, it would’ve been a proper brawl.”
A Clash of Cultures, Markets, and Pride
While Pimblett vs. Topuria may not be as high-stakes from a ranking perspective as other possible title fights—like Arman Tsarukyan (#1) or Justin Gaethje (#3)—the emotional weight and global market appeal cannot be ignored.
Topuria brings the Spanish-Georgian fan base, while Pimblett is a national star in the UK, drawing massive attention every time he competes. A showdown between them would headline a UK or European card, filling arenas and smashing pay-per-view numbers.
In many ways, this mirrors the international appeal of Khabib vs. McGregor. That fight wasn’t just about titles—it was about identity, legacy, and personal pride. The Pimblett-Topuria rivalry checks all those boxes.
Dana White’s Hesitation and UFC’s Dilemma
Despite the drama, Dana White has been hesitant to pull the trigger. Following Topuria’s win at UFC 317, he indicated that the UFC wasn’t yet ready to commit to a Pimblett title shot.
“We’re going to take our time and think about it,” White said. “There are a lot of great contenders at lightweight.”
On paper, Pimblett’s résumé isn’t the strongest among the top ten. He’s currently ranked #8 and hasn’t beaten a top-five opponent yet. But the X-factor is marketability. UFC has a golden opportunity to capitalize on two rising stars in their prime, locked in a feud that’s already drawing headlines.
And while Arman Tsarukyan and Gaethje make more sense in terms of competition, neither comes with a built-in rivalry like this.
Pimblett’s UFC Run: Ready for the Spotlight?
Pimblett currently holds a 7-fight UFC win streak, with 5 finishes by KO or submission. Critics have questioned his level of opposition, but his last few fights showed improvement in his grappling, cage IQ, and composure.
The biggest knock on Pimblett? He often takes damage early. Against someone as fast and powerful as Ilia Topuria, that could be fatal. Still, Pimblett believes his natural size and physicality give him an edge.
“I walk around at 195 pounds. He’s tiny,” Pimblett said. “Everyone thinks he’ll walk through me, but I’ll show them.”
It’s a dangerous mindset—but one that fans are eating up.
Topuria: A Champion on Fire
On the other side stands Ilia Topuria, who is undefeated and holding two belts in the UFC. His dominance at featherweight and lightweight has made him one of the most feared fighters in the promotion.
His first-round KO of Charles Oliveira at UFC 317 was a jaw-dropping moment that silenced doubters and instantly cemented him as one of the sport’s new kings.
Topuria has responded to Pimblett’s taunts in measured tones, but make no mistake—he hasn’t forgotten the insults. The grudge runs deep, and there’s no question he would relish the chance to shut Paddy up once and for all.
What Happens Next?
The UFC is at a crossroads.
Do they give Pimblett the shot now and cash in on the rivalry?
Or do they wait, letting him prove himself against another top contender first?
One thing is clear: the UFC needs stars. And with McGregor out indefinitely, they’re looking for the next great pay-per-view rivalry. Pimblett vs. Topuria could be exactly that.
The seeds are already planted. The feud is real. The quotes are vicious. All that’s left is a date and a location.
Final Thoughts: Will UFC Pull the Trigger?
From hand sanitizer bottles to verbal warfare, Paddy Pimblett vs. Ilia Topuria has the ingredients of a modern MMA classic.
It’s personal, it’s violent, and it’s got that rare kind of heat that even the UFC can’t manufacture—it grew organically. If the UFC plays its cards right, this could be the biggest grudge match since Khabib vs. McGregor.
Will the UFC make it happen? That remains to be seen.
But fans already know one thing:
This fight doesn’t need selling. It’s already a war.
