Paddy Pimblett Awaits UFC Decision on Topuria Fight

Paddy Pimblett's immediate fighting future hinges on a major UFC matchmaking decision involving former champion Ilia Topuria. UFC President Dana White confirmed this week that Topuria is "ready to fight," naming Pimblett as one of two potential opponents. The development comes as Pimblett himself awaits a disciplinary hearing that could see him fined for his post-fight celebration last month.

Will Pimblett Get His Shot at Topuria?

Dana White's update on Ilia Topuria has put the UFC lightweight division on notice. Speaking in an interview, White stated the promotion is in regular contact with Topuria and is ready to book him, but no date or opponent is set. The two names White mentioned were Pimblett and Justin Gaethje. This creates a direct path for the fight Pimblett wants. "I’d love to smash his head in," Pimblett said recently when asked about facing Topuria, though he admitted the UFC hasn't spoken to him about it yet.

Internal discussions, however, may be leaning toward a different path. There is significant talk of an immediate title shot rematch for Topuria against champion Justin Gaethje. Gaethje famously stopped Topuria at UFC Freedom 250 on June 14, 2026, in one of the year's biggest upsets. If that rematch gets made, Pimblett would need a new opponent. He has listed several possibilities, including Max Holloway, the winner of the upcoming Arman Tsarukyan vs. Mauricio Ruffy bout at UFC 331, or BMF champion Charles Oliveira. A rematch with Gaethje, who beat Pimblett by decision at UFC 324 in January, is also on the table.

Why Pimblett Faces a Hefty Fine

Before he can step into the Octagon again, Pimblett has business with the Nevada State Athletic Commission. His quick first-round submission win over Benoit Saint Denis at UFC 329 in Las Vegas last month was followed by an exuberant celebration where he jumped the cage. That act has landed him, along with Max Holloway and Gable Steveson, a summons for a disciplinary hearing this Wednesday.

The NSAC will determine if a portion of their fight purses should be withheld. Pimblett's manager, Graham Boylan, has criticized the rule. "For the record, this rule needs to be changed," Boylan told MMA Junkie. "Yes, it’s the fight game, and systems need to be in play to make it all work, but this rule does nothing to support that. It’s 2026. Apply a little common sense." Similar fines are not uncommon; two years ago, Diego Lopes had $5,000 withheld from a $100,000 purse for a cage jump.

What's Next for the Liverpool Contender?

Pimblett's return to winning ways was emphatic. At UFC 329, he choked out the dangerous Saint Denis in under a minute, bouncing back from his interim title loss to Gaethje. That victory reaffirmed his status in the division's upper tier. His next assignment is arguably the most important of his career, potentially against a former champion or another top-five name. You can track the latest developments and his eventual booking on our [fixtures](/fixtures) page.

He remains pragmatic about the matchmaking process. "When I get told who I’m fighting, I’m sure everyone else will know," Pimblett said. For now, the Scouser must wait as the UFC weighs its options with Topuria and the NSAC decides his financial penalty. The coming days will clarify both his immediate wallet and his next step toward UFC gold.

• Key Fight Dates: Pimblett lost to Gaethje at UFC 324 (Jan 2026) and beat Saint Denis at UFC 329 (Jul 2026). Topuria lost to Gaethje at UFC Freedom 250 (Jun 14, 2026).
• Disciplinary Risk: Pimblett faces an NSAC hearing for jumping the cage after his July win, with a fine possible.
• Matchmaking Stakes: The UFC is deciding between booking Topuria against Pimblett or granting him an immediate title rematch with Justin Gaethje.