Paddy Pimblett Accuses Rival of Quitting, Eyes Topuria Fight in 2027

Paddy Pimblett has reignited his bitter feud with Ilia Topuria, promising to send the former champion back to featherweight while also accusing fellow lightweight Movsar Evloev of quitting in a recent fight. The Liverpool star is eyeing a major comeback in early 2027, with his training partner explaining why Pimblett holds a significant advantage over Topuria.

Pimblett Promises to Expose a 'Damaged' Topuria

Pimblett believes Ilia Topuria's career as a pound for pound superstar is finished. Topuria suffered the first defeat of his professional career when his corner stopped the fight after four rounds against Justin Gaethje at the historic White House event in June. Pimblett told All Out Fighting that this loss has permanently altered Topuria's aura. "I respect him. He's a very good fighter, but he's never fought anyone like me," Pimblett said. He argued that Topuria, who is about 27, has never had to rebuild after a loss and will struggle to recover. "A little bit damaged goods," Pimblett stated, vowing to prove it if they fight.

Training Partner Reveals Key Physical Advantage

George Staines, a UFC newcomer and Pimblett's main training partner at Next Generation MMA in Liverpool, has detailed why Pimblett would beat Topuria. Staines, who earned his contract with a 61 second knockout on Dana White's Contender Series last month, highlighted Pimblett's physicality. Fighting out of the same orthodox stance, Staines has been a key sparring partner for the former Cage Warriors featherweight champion. He pointed to Pimblett's size and reach as overwhelming factors Topuria has not faced before, framing a potential matchup as a major stylistic problem for the Spaniard.

Next Fight Not Close, But Timeline Emerges

Despite the ongoing call outs, Pimblett is not close to announcing his next UFC bout. He will not compete again in 2026. The ideal window for his return is being targeted for early 2027. This timeline sets the stage for a potential high profile booking against Topuria, who has also recently returned to training. With several other top lightweights booked, the long simmering rivalry represents one of the most attractive options for both men to re enter the title picture.

Pimblett Takes Shot at Movsar Evloev

In other fight week commentary, Pimblett has accused Movsar Evloev of quitting during his bout at UFC 333. The specific details of the accusation are not fully elaborated in the available reports, but it adds another layer to Pimblett's outspoken presence in the lightweight division's conversations. This criticism comes after Pimblett's own bounce back victory earlier this year, where he choked out Benoit Saint Denis following a Fight of the Year loss to Justin Gaethje at UFC 324 in January.

Key Takeaways from Pimblett's Current Situation

• Pimblett is actively targeting a fight with Ilia Topuria for early 2027, claiming the Spaniard is psychologically damaged after his first career loss.
• His training partner, George Staines, cites Pimblett's significant size and reach advantage as the key to beating Topuria.
• Pimblett has accused fellow contender Movsar Evloev of quitting during his recent fight at UFC 333.
• The Liverpool fighter will not compete again in 2026, with his next bout likely several months away.