Team Khabib claims Paddy Pimblett ‘deserves’ title shot after rejecting Ilia Topuria

The lightweight division is undoubtedly the UFC’s most competitive one with elite fighters constantly battling for the belt. After UFC 314’s co-main event, Paddy Pimblett declared his intention to challenge Islam Makhachev, aiming for championship gold next. With Ilia Topuria also eyeing a title shot, the race for lightweight supremacy has become more intense and unpredictable than ever.

Islam Makhachev’s coach, Javier Mendez, recently did a podcast where he talked about the state of the lightweight division. He went into detail about who should the Dagestani fight next and also credited Pimblett for his incredible rise. According to Mendez, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the Scouser fighting for the title soon, given his marketability. 

Coach Mendez admitted Pimblett’s consistent performances have won him over, expressing interest in facing the exciting UK fighter. He believed Pimblett’s massive fan base in both England and the United States will significantly elevate the fight’s overall hype. Pimblett’s dominant win over Michael Chandler surprised many fans, reinforcing his legitimacy as a serious contender in the lightweight division.

Islam Makhachev's coach, Javier Mendez, believes Paddy Pimblett is worthy of a title shot😲

"Paddy is ready to face anybody. His credentials and his winning record in the UFC speak for themselves. If they give him the next title shot, he deserves it. Is he worthy? Yes. He has… pic.twitter.com/jCMPeVKgsC

— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) April 15, 2025

This news isn’t ideal for Ilia Topuria, the former featherweight champion eagerly aiming for a shot at the lightweight title. The Georgian-Spanish fighter was previously dismissed by Makhachev, who insisted Topuria must first prove he deserves a title opportunity. With no official confirmation from the UFC, the lightweight title picture remains uncertain, leaving fans and fighters wondering what’s next.

Islam Makhachev doesn’t need to fight Ilia Topuria 

Islam Makhachev’s rise was built on dominant grappling, elite discipline, and trust in Khabib Nurmagomedov’s mentorship, which guided his evolution. He ran through lightweights, showcasing superior control and pressure, leaving no doubt he belonged at the elite level. The Dagestani star gave two opportunities to featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski, beating the Aussie on different occasions.

Though brave and thrilling, beating smaller opponents didn’t elevate his legacy as much as conquering true lightweight contenders would have. Now, with Topuria, Makhachev has found himself in a similar situation. In a recent interview, Nurmagomedov talked about this in detail, shutting down all the assumptions. 

Nurmagomedov’s involvement might be the biggest reason why Makhachev is inclined toward someone like Justin Gaethje. ‘The Highlight’ recently bagged a win and fits all the boxes for the next opponent for the pound-for-pound number one. Nevertheless, it seems like in a few more weeks, all the doubts regarding the lightweight contention will come to an end.

Islam Makhachev’s ultimate dream 

Islam Makhachev wants to become a double champion to carve his legacy separate from Khabib Nurmagomedov’s dominant but single-division reign. He respects ‘The Eagle’, yet seeks achievements his mentor never pursued, adding a new chapter to Dagestan’s proud MMA history.

He’s eyeing UFC 315, watching closely to see if Belal Muhammad defends his welterweight title or misses out. If Muhammad doesn’t win, Makhachev is ready to challenge Jack Della Maddalena and remains eager to chase greatness through any dangerous opportunity.

Related: Islam Makhachev once publicly revealed Khabib Nurmagomedov’s spending during training camp

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