More than four months have passed since Ilia Topuria captured the UFC lightweight title, yet questions about his first title defense remain unanswered. In a division as stacked as 155 pounds, Justin Gaethje quickly emerged as a leading contender earlier this year after re-entering the title conversation with his victory over Rafael Fiziev at UFC 313. When Topuria claimed the belt at UFC 317, momentum began to build for a potential clash between him and Gaethje. However, speculation soon shifted toward a matchup with Paddy Pimblett, sparking controversy within the MMA community.

Feeling overlooked, ‘The Highlight’ reportedly threatened to retire if the promotion bypassed him for the next title shot. Dana White, however, brushed off those threats. Now, months later, the talk of an Ilia Topuria vs. Paddy Pimblett “grudge” showdown has become a major part of the MMA world, even drawing support from Topuria himself, who called it a “much more entertaining fight” than facing Gaethje. While nothing is official yet, Justin Gaethje’s manager has recently pointed out a major flaw in Pimblett’s resume.

Justin Gaethje’s team calls out weakness in Paddy Pimblett’s record

Jumping the line in the UFC has long been a common practice, as Khabib’s coach, Javier Mendez, highlighted, calling the UFC “not a true sport” but rather entertainment, where outcomes often hinge on what happens in other fights within the division. With Islam Makhachev set to debut at 170 pounds in two weeks, the No. 1 spot in the 155-pound division will likely be claimed by the No. 2 contender, Arman Tsarukyan. “If he gets jumped by Paddy, he will retire, and he’ll never fight again in the UFC,” said Abdelaziz while speaking to Submission Radio.

Although ‘The Baddy’ boasts a seven-fight win streak, Abdelaziz pointed out a flaw in his recent opponents, noting they were past their prime and not performing at their peak. “Listen, Paddy Pimblett—I got nothing against the young man. He’s great, he’s entertaining. But his last three opponents are a combined 0–13, and I’m saying, how is he ahead in the rankings? How is Justin behind him? Justin Gaethje keeps getting overlooked. The UFC keeps giving favorites after favorites after favorites.”

Pimblett’s last three opponents were Michael Chandler, who came in with a 1–4 record and nearly a two-year layoff; Bobby Green, who is not ranked in the top 15; and Tony Ferguson, who had a six-fight win streak before facing Pimblett. None of them were at the peak of their careers or competing for a title at the time. Arman Tsarukyan, who is set to fight Dan Hooker this month in the promotion’s Qatar debut, is the only opponent Abdelaziz considers a legitimate contender over Justin Gaethje. “Listen, the only guy who should get a title shot over Justin Gaethje is Arman.”

Despite all the hype surrounding Paddy Pimblett vs. Ilia Topuria, Justin Gaethje remains steadfast that he is the most deserving challenger for UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria’s first title defense in 2026, recently expressing his desire to face Topuria at the UFC White House event that year.

Dana White gives his take on a potential Topuria-Pimblett fight

Reports indicate that Ilia Topuria is set to return in January–February 2026 under the Paramount broadcasting deal. Many have speculated that, given the hype and the grudge with Paddy Pimblett, this could be the fight the UFC is aiming to make, creating major excitement. However, UFC CEO Dana White is taking his time before making any decisions, as there are still options to explore.

Speaking to TNT Fight Sports, White dismissed questions about how close the grudge match is to happening, despite online rumors that Topuria and Pimblett could fight as early as January when the UFC begins its new broadcast deal with Paramount. “We’re always exploring lots of different things,” White said. “Listen, obviously, it’s a fun fight, people would like to see that. But I don’t know. As of right now, no, we haven’t made that fight. We’re trying to figure out what’s next for Topuria.”

With the UFC having already announced the rest of the year’s major bouts, fans will have to wait for Dana White to officially confirm Ilia Topuria’s first title defense. Who do you think should challenge the champion next, Paddy Pimblett or Justin Gaethje? Share your thoughts in the comments below.