“Come On Chorizo” – Bitter Rivals Paddy Pimblett and Ilia Topuria Cross Paths Ahead of Potential Fight

Paddy Pimblett and Ilia Topuria reignite their rivalry in Qatar as tensions rise ahead of a potential UFC showdown.

“Come On Chorizo” – Bitter Rivals Paddy Pimblett and Ilia Topuria Cross Paths Ahead of Potential Fight

Ilia Topuria and Paddy Pimblett get into a heated face off (MiddleEasy, MMA Fighting)

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The lightweight division remains highly active, with several fighters positioned for future title opportunities. A key matchup is set at UFC Qatar, where Arman Tsarukyan and Dan Hooker will compete in a No. 1 contender bout. During fight week, champion Ilia Topuria and contender Paddy Pimblett also reignited their long-standing rivalry. Their heated argument in Qatar further heightened their bad blood.

Topuria vacated his featherweight title earlier this year before committing fully to lightweight. He captured the vacant belt at UFC 317 by knocking out Charles Oliveira in the first round. Following the win, Pimblett entered the cage, leading to a brief confrontation between the two. Topuria shoved Pimblett during the exchange before officials separated them.

Topuria and Pimblett have maintained an intense online rivalry in the years since their first conflict. Their animosity carried into UFC Qatar, where both were present to corner teammates. Topuria was with Aleksandre Topuria, while Pimblett supported fellow Liverpudlian Luke Riley. Their proximity led to another heated verbal spat during the event.

Their conflict stretches back to a physical altercation at UFC London in 2022, where punches were exchanged during fight week. The situation escalated again later that year during a press event, requiring staff to intervene. Their confrontations have continued across multiple UFC events, and each encounter has added to the friction in their already tense relationship.

Pimblett has risen steadily through the lightweight ranks with a series of notable victories. His UFC wins include Jared Gordon, Tony Ferguson, and King Green, showcasing his grappling and finishing ability. He later added a significant win over Michael Chandler at UFC 314. These performances pushed him into the upper tier of the division.

Paddy Pimblett’s surge has placed him firmly among potential future title challengers. His recent ranking climb reflects both his momentum and marketability within the division. Meanwhile, Ilia Topuria remains unbeaten and stands as the central figure every contender aims to challenge, having yet to make his first defense. Their rivalry continues to shape discussions about the lightweight title picture.

Arman Tsarukyan calls out Paddy Pimblett’s ranking promotion

Arman Tsarukyan is set to return as the headliner for the UFC’s first-ever event in Qatar, where he will face veteran contender Dan Hooker. The bout marks his first Octagon appearance since defeating Charles Oliveira at UFC 300 in April 2024. Tsarukyan has remained a consistent presence in the lightweight division’s top three. His placement reflects years of elite performances and sustained momentum.

Arman Tsarukyan mocks Paddy Pimblett
Arman Tsarukyan mocks Paddy Pimblett (via Imago)

The Armenian star was initially scheduled to face then-champion Islam Makhachev at UFC 311 before withdrawing from the bout. The decision placed him in Dana White’s bad books during a critical period in the division. Around the same time, doubts began circulating about Paddy Pimblett’s rapid rise in the rankings. The Armenian star recently expressed frustration with Pimblett’s overall credentials.

You gotta delete him from the rankings. He’s not even deserving to be in top 10… He beat Chandler, the guy had 3 losses. It was Tony Ferguson. He had 8 losses.

Arman Tsarukyan via Overdogs Podcast

Interestingly, Dan Hooker also reacted with surprise when he saw Pimblett ranked at No. 5 in the division. However, rather than criticizing the Liverpudlian, Hooker simply took an “it is what it is” stance. His response contrasted with the more vocal opinions from other contenders. Pimblett’s ranking continues to fuel discussion as the lightweight picture evolves.

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