Dustin Poirier Poses Major Questions on Paddy Pimblett’s Credentials to Fight For Undisputed 155lbs Title

Former 155lbs interim kingpin Dustin Poirier shares his opinion on Paddy Pimblett potentially fighting for the lightweight gold next.

Dustin Poirier Poses Major Questions on Paddy Pimblett’s Credentials to Fight For Undisputed 155lbs Title

Dustin Poirier doesn't think Paddy Pimblett deserves fighting Ilia Topuria yet (via X)

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The UFC lightweight division is widely regarded as one of the most stacked in the sport, filled with hungry fighters eager for a shot at the title. A few months ago, Ilia Topuria knocked out Charles Oliveira to become the new lightweight champion, also earning recognition as one of the top pound-for-pound fighters.

Since then, the Spaniard has been called out by several contenders, with Paddy Pimblett emerging as one of the most prominent names. The Englishman made headlines at UFC 317 when he stepped into the Octagon for a heated face-off with Topuria.

The moment quickly went viral, generating excitement among fans who enjoyed the rivalry buildup owing to their history of incidents in 2022. However, many analysts criticized the encounter as an orchestrated stunt. UFC CEO Dana White appeared visibly upset afterward, insisting he had not approved the confrontation and criticizing the officials involved.

Despite White’s disapproval, the incident significantly boosted Pimblett’s profile, positioning him as a potential contender for the lightweight title ahead of Arman Tsarukyan and Justin Gaethje. Still, according to UFC legend Dustin Poirier, Pimblett has not yet earned or proven himself worthy of a championship opportunity.

I don’t think a win over Michael Chandler, on the streak that Chandler’s on, deserves a title shot right away. I’d like to see him fight one more top-5 guy, one more tough, tough test, and then we can talk about title fights for him. It’s a little bit rushed for Paddy.

Dustin Poirier via Mike Bohn

For the unversed, Pimblett is undefeated in the UFC and has defeated notable names, including Bobby Green and former interim champion Tony Ferguson. Despite his success, accusations of receiving favorable treatment or so-called “Dana White privilege” persist, largely due to controversial decision victories.

Most recently, Pimblett finished veteran Michael Chandler at UFC 314, although the Missouri native entered their bout already suffering consecutive losses, weakening the accomplishment. Despite all this, Pimblett enjoys a massive fan base, particularly within the United Kingdom, making him a huge draw.

Additionally, he shares a heated, long-standing rivalry with Topuria, a feud that originated during their tense and hostile interactions in a hotel in 2022. Moreover, Pimblett has openly declared his desire to challenge Topuria inside Spain’s iconic Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, creating immense promotional buzz.

Paddy Pimblett believes Arman Tsarukyan is tougher than Ilia Topuria 

Apart from Paddy Pimblett, former top lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan has publicly challenged Ilia Topuria, seeking a title opportunity. However, UFC CEO Dana White denied Tsarukyan this chance, particularly after his controversial last-minute pullout from UFC 311’s scheduled bout against Islam Makhachev.

Paddy Pimblett credits rival Arman Tsarukyan
Paddy Pimblett credits rival Arman Tsarukyan (via X)

Additionally, Topuria has consistently rejected multiple callouts from Tsarukyan, despite repeated attempts and provocations from the determined lightweight. Many fans accused Topuria of deliberate avoidance, citing Tsarukyan as possibly the biggest stylistic threat within the stacked lightweight division.

In a recent interview, the Liverpudlian shared the same sentiment while crediting Tsarukyan’s wrestling abilities. 

I think stylistically, Arman is a tougher fight than Ilia. He’s more of a proper lightweight. I think he’s got better grappling than Ilia. Ilia has better striking, yeah, but I just think stylistically, for me…. styles make fights. Everyone fights each other different, and I think stylistically, Arman will be a tougher fight for me.

Paddy Pimblett via eldoberdanMMA

Tsarukyan and Pimblett have also developed a heated rivalry, fueled by constant verbal exchanges during interviews and on social media. According to the Englishman, the Armenian was born with a silver spoon in his mouth and has been given everything by his rich father. In response, ‘Ahalkalakets’ believes Pimblett didn’t earn his position and had an easy route to the top. 

Their ongoing war of words continues escalating, ensuring heightened anticipation for an eventual showdown that promises fireworks inside the Octagon. However, before that, fans are more excited about who among these two will get the next title shot.

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