Paddy Pimblett has explained why his determination to fight Ilia Topuria soon is linked to Islam Makhachev.
Paddy Pimblett’s rise through the UFC ranks has been steady, and his sights are now set on Ilia Topuria — not just to settle an old score, but because he sees it as a step toward a bigger goal.
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For Pimblett, the path forward is shaped by the dominance of Islam Makhachev, a fighter he openly admires.
Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC
Paddy Pimblett calls Islam Makhachev the UFC’s pound-for-pound No. 1
In a recent interview with The Mac Life, Paddy Pimblett was clear about who he sees as the sport’s top fighter, ahead of his bout with Justin Gaethje at UFC 324.
He praised Islam Makhachev’s dominance and consistency as the standard he aims to match in his own career.
“For me, Islam is pound-for-pound No. 1. Ilia is No. 2. I want to beat Ilia and be on that pound-for-pound list. I want to show everyone why we have weight divisions and that he’s just too small to beat me.”
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The Liverpool lightweight believes that beating Topuria would do more than just end their long-standing feud. It would also highlight the importance of weight classes in mixed martial arts, something he feels is often overlooked.
Pimblett’s recent comments show how much Makhachev’s reign has influenced his approach to the next stage of his career.
A rivalry renewed between Paddy Pimblett and Ilia Topuria
Paddy Pimblett and Ilia Topuria’s rivalry began with a backstage confrontation at UFC London in 2022.
Since then, both fighters have remained unbeaten in the UFC, and fans have been waiting for the matchup to finally take place.
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Pimblett sees Topuria as the logical next step before facing higher-ranked opponents. He believes a victory would not only close a personal chapter but also mark his arrival among the elite — a journey that mirrors Makhachev’s rise to champion status.
With both men undefeated, anticipation continues to build for one of the UFC’s most heated potential matchups.
For Pimblett, though, it’s about more than rivalry — it’s about proving he can reach the level of the fighter he considers the sport’s best: Islam Makhachev.
Read More: Champion backs Pimblett over Gaethje and discusses potential showdown after UFC 324
