Paddy Pimblett Teases Skipping Arman Tsarukyan for Title Fight Against ‘El Chorizo’ Ilia Topuria

UFC lightweight contender Paddy Pimblett drops hints of a title fight against Ilia Topuria that would see him skip the line to the top.

Paddy Pimblett Teases Skipping Arman Tsarukyan for Title Fight Against ‘El Chorizo’ Ilia Topuria

Paddy Pimblett is ready to share the octagon with Ilia Topuria next (via Imago)

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As expected, the UFC’s lightweight division continues to thrive as one of the most competitive and talent-packed rosters in MMA. Currently, the crown belongs to Ilia Topuria, who is riding high on momentum and delivering dominant performances inside the octagon. Top contenders Paddy Pimblett and Arman Tsarukyan are eager for a title shot and growing increasingly vocal about opportunities.

Tsarukyan, currently ranked #2 in the lightweight division, strongly believes he’s earned a rightful shot at the coveted title. Despite his ranking and performances, Paddy Pimblett has gained ground quickly, using fame and smart promotion to leap ahead unexpectedly. In a recent social media tease, the UK star subtly hinted at possibly facing Topuria in his next outing.

Just waiting on that (call emoji) el chorizo I’m coming youuuuu

Paddy Pimblett via Instagram 

After Topuria’s stunning knockout victory over Charles Oliveira at UFC 317, Pimblett jumped into the octagon for a face-off. Fans erupted in excitement as the two rivals shared a tense face-off, showcasing their heated history and mutual disdain on full display. Topuria didn’t shy away from the moment, expressing genuine interest in fighting the Scouser next due to their rivalry and pay-per-view potential.

Pimblett was initially mocked by fans and critics, accused of benefiting from so-called “Dana White Privilege” without deserving it. However, recent victories over seasoned veterans like Tony Ferguson and Michael Chandler have earned him newfound respect from the MMA community.

Despite his improved reputation, many still argue that Pimblett’s resume lacks the depth and challenges needed for a legitimate title shot. Topuria also publicly rejected fighting Tsarukyan, which raised questions about him allegedly ducking the tougher challenger. However, Dana White had made it clear that the Armenian star will not get the next title shot.

Top lightweight Dan Hooker also talked about Pimblett getting the title shot over Tsarukyan, as he is an easier fight with huge PPV upside. Since then, the Armenian has done everything in his power to mock the newly crowned champion and provoke a reaction in return. 

Arman Tsarukyan confirms getting ducked by Ilia Topuria 

Arman Tsarukyan and Ilia Topuria have engaged in intense trash talk recently, escalating their rivalry to a whole new level. He boldly challenged Topuria with a $500K wager, confidently claiming the champion wouldn’t last long inside the octagon with him. The Armenian also mocked El Matador’s wrestling skills, stating he would completely dominate him in every grappling exchange inside the Octagon.

Arman Tsarukyan mocks Ilia Topuria for ducking
Arman Tsarukyan mocks Ilia Topuria for ducking (via X)

However, Topuria hasn’t moved from his earlier stance, leading fans and analysts to compare him with Jon Jones‘ avoidance. Desperate for his title shot, Arman Tsarukyan recently mocked the freshly crowned champion again during an interview segment.

He feels that he’s going to lose that fight, and it’s better to give the belt and then like go up or wait to see what happens with me because he knows I’m a big problem for him. I’m going to get his title, he knows that, and he wants an easy fight with Paddy (Pimblett) or (Justin) Gaethje or someone, just make money and defend, but with me, it’s going to be hard for him. I already told them I’m ready September or October. I’m in shape and I train twice a day. I’m healthy now, so if they tell me October with somebody and December with Ilia, for sure.

Arman Tsarukyan via MMA Junkie 

Topuria is a devastating knockout artist, finishing elite opponents like Max Holloway and Alexander Volkanovski with brutal precision. Despite his striking dominance, many critics still question Topuria’s wrestling defense, calling it his vulnerability. Tsarukyan’s elite grappling could expose that weakness, making this potential matchup both highly intriguing and stylistically unpredictable for fans.

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