Paddy Pimblett Warned About Ilia Topuria Mismatch Despite Justin Gaethje Booking at UFC 324

Paddy Pimblett gets warned by former rival Michael Chandler regarding potential Ilia Topuria fight in the future.

Paddy Pimblett Warned About Ilia Topuria Mismatch Despite Justin Gaethje Booking at UFC 324

Paddy Pimblett warned about Ilia Topuria's prowess (via Bleacher Report, Sports Illustrated)

🔍 Explore this post with:

ChatGPTPerplexityGrok AIGoogle AI

The recent UFC 324 announcements have generated major attention across the MMA community. The main event was booked as Justin Gaethje vs Paddy Pimblett for the interim lightweight title. Michael Chandler recently weighed in, warning Pimblett about the challenge of facing lightweight champion Ilia Topuria. The matchup highlights the ongoing narrative surrounding the division’s top fighters.

Topuria and Pimblett have been involved in a rivalry dating back to an altercation outside a fighter’s hotel in 2023. Their tensions escalated inside the cage after Topuria’s win at UFC 317, during which Topuria shoved Pimblett. The events intensified speculation about a potential matchup between the two. Their history has become a defining storyline for the lightweight division.

Chandler previously faced Pimblett at UFC 314 in April 2025, where Pimblett secured a third-round knockout victory. That win further established Pimblett’s rising status in the division. Following his own experience, Chandler indicated that Pimblett might struggle to match up against Topuria if he secures the interim title. The comparison underscored the gap in expertise between Pimblett and the champion.

Paddy is better than most will give him credit for. Obviously, I shared the octagon with him. His octagon presence was on point. He knew where he needed to be. He was completely okay with getting taken down in that first round. He kept great distance. Kept me off with the kicks. But I do think Paddy would be not in a great scenario for him to go out there and fight fire with fire with probably the best striker on the planet.

Michael Chandler via MMA Fighting

The Liverpudlian’s rise through the lightweight rankings has been rapid, moving from #8 to #5 in recent months. His progression has allowed him to overtake more active contenders. The climb reflects his consistent performances and adaptability inside the cage. Many fighters, such as Dan Hooker and Dustin Poirier, have reacted strongly to the level of competition Pimblett has faced for his ranking.

The ranking changes and ongoing rivalry with Topuria have fueled speculation about a potential future bout between them. ‘El Matador’ has announced he will not compete until the mid-quarter of next year due to personal reasons. This delay adds uncertainty regarding when the matchup could occur. Nevertheless, the UFC 324 interim title fight will confirm that the 155-pound division does not remain stagnant.

Pimblett has overcome multiple challenges on his rise through the lightweight division, defeating every obstacle in his path. His performances have demonstrated skill, resilience, and strategic growth. Support from figures like Max Holloway further emphasizes his potential to compete against Ilia Topuria. The path forward suggests Paddy Pimblett remains a central figure in the division’s evolving landscape.

Paddy Pimblett’s weight gain gets flamed by Arman Tsarukyan

Paddy Pimblett is known for his massive weight gains after fights, often putting on significant pounds in the offseason. Just months before stepping into the Octagon, he cuts down to a shredded, competition-ready physique. The transformation process has become a defining aspect of his fight preparation. Fans and analysts alike have observed the extremes of his weight fluctuations.

Arman Tsarukyan talks about Paddy Pimblett's weight
Arman Tsarukyan talks about Paddy Pimblett’s weight (via Reddit)

His approach has placed him under constant scrutiny due to the potential health risks involved. Pimblett frequently indulges in junk food and drinking between bouts, which contributes to his weight spikes. These practices have drawn criticism from fellow fighters, including Arman Tsarukyan, who recently highlighted the dangers of such drastic physical changes over short periods.

That’s just a stupidity. He doesn’t respect his own body and once he retires he is going to have serious health problems. His organ will suffer badly and I think in a few years he might not even be able to walk.

Arman Tsarukyan via YouTube

Despite the criticism, Pimblett remains unbothered and continues to focus on his career. He has indicated that he eventually plans to move up in weight. For now, he can make the 155-pound lightweight limit effectively. His adaptability and confidence in managing his body remain key elements of his success.

Also Read: