Paddy Pimblett Seaking Ilia Topuria: Will There Be a New Lightweight Champion?
Paddy “The Baddy” Pimblett has established himself as a serious contender in the UFC and is looking to further prove the doubters wrong. Paddy has established himself as a young and talented grappler who has notable victories over Tony Ferguson at UFC 296, King Green at UFC 304, and Michael Chandler at UFC 314. Currently ranked at number seven in the Lightweight Division, Paddy is undefeated and looking to square off with the champion of the division, Ilia Topuria. Ilia has been dominating this weight class with three past victories over Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 298, Max Holloway at UFC 308, and Charles Oliveira at UFC 317.
Paddy and Ilia have established a rivalry between each other that has continued to intensify as they both win more fights. Ilia made a statement showing animosity towards Pimplett in a post-fight interview following his victory against Charles Oliveira. Pimblett has not held back and signified his desire to fight Ilia next. Some critics believe Paddy has not earned this opportunity yet due to his ranking and there being other fighters more deserving of the chance at the title. Paddy has not yet fought for the title, but if he continues to dominate, he could eventually be deserving of the chance. There is no fight scheduled yet, but this is one the UFC will definitely want to see.
This matchup is a classic grappler vs. striker situation. Ilia is one of the hardest hitters in the lightweight division, and Paddy has amazing ground technique and control. Both fighters have amazing stamina and incredible physical fitness. Paddy would need to dominate on the ground for his best chance of beating Ilia. On the ground, Ilia takes the edge with his incredible power and accuracy. If Paddy can get Ilia on the ground, his jiu-jitsu skills will bring Ilia out of his comfort zone. Paddy will also need to avoid the brutal knockout punch from Ilia that we have seen from him before. It may take time before Paddy is granted this opportunity, but based on his UFC so far, he could be a serious contender for the belt.
