Paddy Pimblett Eyes Topuria TUF Showdown as UFC Boss Gives Green Light

Paddy Pimblett's proposal to coach a season of The Ultimate Fighter opposite Ilia Topuria has received a positive reaction from UFC president Dana White. The idea, pitched by the Liverpudlian star, is seen as a potential blockbuster setup for a future grudge match, though White noted the final decision hinges on timing and the crowded title picture at 155 pounds.

White open to Pimblett-Topuria TUF season

Dana White said the concept appeals to him, acknowledging the entertainment value a rivalry between Pimblett and Topuria could bring to the long-running reality series. No official commitment has been made, but the UFC boss's openness signals a viable path for one of the promotion's most vocal feuds. Pimblett recently stated he would love to fight Topuria and believes their dynamic would make for compelling television.

Pimblett prioritizes settling two personal feuds

Beyond the TUF idea, Paddy Pimblett has a clear hit list. His primary goal remains a rematch with Justin Gaethje to avenge his January loss at UFC 324 and capture the undisputed lightweight title. However, if that fight isn't immediately available, he has identified two other targets. "If no belt was on the line with any of them, I want to beat Ilia Topuria, so I’d pick him," Pimblett told Kolos MMA. He shares the same sentiment towards Arman Tsarukyan, creating multiple high-stakes options for his next bout.

The lightweight contender is ready to fight anyone

Pimblett's stance is unequivocal: he will accept any challenge the UFC offers. Following his swift 52-second submission of Benoit Saint Denis at UFC 329 in July, he has positioned himself back in the title conversation. He questioned the logic of Tsarukyan potentially getting a title shot ahead of him, pointing out his own victory over a higher-ranked opponent. "I’ll just fight whoever’s name gets put on a contract to me. I don’t turn down any fights," Pimblett stated, naming Gaethje, Topuria, Tsarukyan, and Charles Oliveira as potential foes.

One fighter Pimblett will never face

There is a strict limit to Pimblett's willingness to fight anyone. He has declared he would rather vacate a UFC title than face teammate George Staines. Both men train at Next Generation MMA Liverpool, and Pimblett views his gym mates as family. "No, we'd never fight. Nobody in our gym does that," he said, emphasizing he would move up a weight class to avoid the conflict. Staines recently scored a viral slam knockout on Dana White's Contender Series.

• TUF Talks: Dana White is receptive to Pimblett and Topuria coaching a season of The Ultimate Fighter.
• Hit List: Pimblett wants Gaethje for the belt but prioritizes Topuria and Tsarukyan in non-title fights.
• Any Opponent: The 31-year-old insists he has never turned down a fight and is open to facing any top lightweight.
• Team First: Pimblett would vacate a championship rather than fight teammate George Staines.

Pimblett's comeback win has solidified his place in the upper tier of one of the UFC's most competitive divisions. With a potential reality TV spotlight and several bitter rivalries to explore, his path forward is filled with high-profile possibilities.