Ilia Topuria vs. Paddy Pimblett Title Fight ‘Suspected’ by MMA Fans After Ranking Controversy

A title shot against Ilia Topuria for Paddy Pimblett is possible after a strange promotion for 'The Baddy' in UFC lightweight rankings.

Ilia Topuria vs. Paddy Pimblett Title Fight ‘Suspected’ by MMA Fans After Ranking Controversy

Paddy Pimblett moves up to No. 7 rank and could fight Ilia Topuria next (via Action Sports, Forbes)

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The UFC rankings have always been closely observed by fans, especially after a significant event that has crowned a new champion. The UFC 319 main event crowned Khamzat Chimaev as the new middleweight champion after he defeated Dricus Du Plessis. However, fans noticed a change in the lightweight rankings concerning English fighter Paddy Pimblett.

Fans recently noticed that Pimblett had moved up to the No. 7 spot in the lightweight rankings. However, the sudden change in ranking has confused fans as Pimblett overtook Mateusz Gamrot and Beneil Dariush, who were ranked at No. 7 and No. 8, respectively. Pimblett’s sudden promotion has dropped the two fighters down one rank each, despite not losing any bouts recently.

This has sparked speculation for a title fight between champion Ilia Topuria and ‘The Baddy’. Despite winning his last fight in April 2025, Pimblett’s sudden promotion does not make sense. It is because Gamrot won his last fight in May 2025 and Dariush won his last fight in June 2025 at UFC 317. It has left no logical reason for their sudden demotion in the rankings.

Pimblett has always shown interest in fighting for the title and recently spoke out on challenging Topuria for championship gold. However, ‘El Matador’ has shown no interest in allowing Pimblett to challenge him for the 155-pound belt.

The tension between the two fighters dates back to 2022, when they nearly brawled in a hotel during UFC London fight week. Topuria has consistently taken verbal shots at Pimblett, questioning his skills and calling him overrated, while Pimblett has dismissed Topuria as bitter and obsessed. However, the duo was also involved in an intense face-off at UFC 317 after the Georgian’s lightweight championship victory.

The rivalry between Pimblett and Topuria has already established itself as one of the division’s most interesting rivalries, regardless of when the UFC chooses to schedule the match. Their fight seems to be inevitable given Pimblett’s star power and Topuria’s undefeated record on a collision path.

Fans react to Paddy Pimblett sudden promotion in lightweight rankings

Many fans questioned the ranking jump, citing his lack of activity compared to other contenders who had recent wins. Some viewed it as “Dana White privilege,” while others saw it as setting the stage for a possible clash with Topuria. Pimblett last fought Michael Chandler in April 2025 and secured an impressive TKO finish in the third round.

Ilia Topuria Paddy Pimblett
Ilia Topuria Paddy Pimblett (via Forbes)

Fans are divided and concerned regarding Pimblett’s sudden promotion in the rankings. However, the speculation for a title fight has few fans excited to see an end to their bitter rivalry. In contrast, few fans are concerned with Pimblett leapfrogging over the top-ranked contenders. Here are some fan reactions:

Pimblett’s rise to No. 7 demonstrates his rising impact in the lightweight division, but it also calls into question the methods used to determine UFC ranking changes. Rankings in the UFC has always caused criticisms and some have even urged AI intervention to fix the rankings.

While his victory over Michael Chandler earlier this year boosted his resume, the timing of his most recent move shows that promotional considerations may have played a factor. His next fight will provide a better indication of whether he can cement his place among the division’s top contenders.

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