Paddy Pimblett Targets Top UFC Lightweight Clash in Abu Dhabi Return
Liverpool’s UFC lightweight Paddy Pimblett is aiming to return to the Octagon this October in Abu Dhabi, with his focus on securing a fight against one of the division’s top contenders.
Following his impressive third-round finish of Michael Chandler at UFC 314 in Miami, Pimblett is looking to challenge someone ranked in the top five as he continues his push toward title contention.
In a conversation with BBC Sport, Pimblett mentioned his interest in fighting either Ilia Topuria or Justin Gaethje. Topuria is currently set to face Charles Oliveira for the vacant lightweight title at UFC 317 on June 28. If Topuria claims the belt, Pimblett would welcome a championship bout with him. Still, he admitted that Gaethje appears to be the more realistic option at this point.
“I’m hoping to fight in Abu Dhabi in October. I think that’s when I’m going to be back in the cage,” Pimblett said. “I was thinking Ilia might call me out if he wins [against Oliveira]. I’d love to beat him if he gets the belt. I’d love to fight him anyway but he’s booked, so I think it’s more than likely Justin Gaethje.”
There is history between Pimblett and Topuria, as the two had a physical altercation at a hotel before UFC London in 2022. Topuria, who recently transitioned from featherweight to lightweight, relinquished his featherweight title earlier this year.
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Gaethje, a fan favorite known for his powerful striking and entertaining fights—with 20 knockouts in 26 bouts—secured a victory over Rafael Fiziev in March. He currently sits at No. 3 in the lightweight rankings and does not have a fight scheduled, making him a strong possibility for Pimblett’s next opponent.
Pimblett dismissed a potential matchup with fourth-ranked Arman Tsarukyan, stating, “No one [cares] about Arman Tsarukyan and people actually want to watch Gaethje fight. People know it’ll be an exciting fight, me versus Gaethje.”
Since joining the UFC in 2021, Pimblett has remained undefeated in the promotion with seven straight victories. He has also expressed his ambition to headline a UFC card in Liverpool—something the city hasn’t seen since 2018.
Looking ahead, Pimblett believes a win over a top-tier opponent like Gaethje could earn him a shot at UFC gold. “One win away and I’ll be fighting for the belt. Yeah, that’s always been the aim. It’s the only aim that we have,” he said.
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