Justin Gaethje Threatens Retirement If Paddy Pimblett Gets Title Shot Against Ilia Topuria
The lightweight division is undoubtedly one of the most competitive divisions in the UFC roster, filled with world-class fighters. It is currently ruled by the champion Ilia Topuria, who captured the belt by beating Charles Oliveira at UFC 317. Since then, all the top contenders are desperate to earn the next shot at the title and prove themselves worthy.
This includes big names such as Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett, who are both determined to achieve championship glory. Currently, Pimblett stands as the frontrunner in the title race, with many fans expecting him to challenge Topuria next year. However, former lightweight title contender Gaethje strongly disapproves of this idea and believes Pimblett hasn’t earned the opportunity yet.
In his last bout, Gaethje bounced back from his previous loss and defeated Rafael Fiziev in a brutal war. Following that victory, Gaethje openly stated that the UFC owes him a title shot; otherwise, he might consider retiring from the UFC. In a recent interview, Gaethje’s manager, Ali Abdelaziz, expressed frustration about Pimblett potentially getting a title shot before Gaethje, calling the situation completely unfair.
“I got nothing against Paddy, he’s great, he’s entertaining. But his last three opponents are 0-13. In the rankings Justin Gaethje is ahead of him. Justin keeps giving UFC favors after favors. What Paddy has done to the UFC,” said Ali Abdelaziz via Submission Radio.
Pimblett has established himself as one of the most entertaining fighters in the UFC, known for his charisma and energy. He has built a massive fan base in the United Kingdom, making him a highly marketable asset for the organization. For the UFC, it makes more business sense to push Pimblett over Gaethje, given his global popularity and appeal. On the other hand, Ilia Topuria appears more interested in sharing the Octagon with Pimblett rather than facing Gaethje next.
Paddy Pimblett wants to destroy Ilia Topuria next
The beef between Paddy Pimblett and Ilia Topuria began years ago when the two exchanged heated insults on social media. Their rivalry escalated during a backstage altercation where both fighters nearly came to blows, further intensifying their mutual dislike and public feud. At UFC 317, the two finally had a tense face-off that caught everyone’s attention and electrified the atmosphere.
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The intense staredown quickly went viral online, with many UFC fans praising the rivalry and demanding the fight happen soon. In a recent interview, the Scouser warned the Spanish champion ahead of their potential bout. “I’d absolutely smash his face in for him. I can see me beating him anywhere the fight goes to be honest, people put him on a pedestal now they think he’s this big amazing thing, when I’ll bring him crashing back down to earth in a big way,” said Paddy Pimblett.
Going into the fight, Ilia Topuria would undoubtedly be the fan favourite because of his knockout power and striking skills. However, Pimblett possesses strong grappling and submission abilities, giving him a realistic chance to pull off an upset against Topuria. Nevertheless, it will be interesting to see whether this highly anticipated fight finally gets finalized next and officially announced soon.
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