Paddy Pimblett Faces Fine, Targets December UFC Return

Paddy Pimblett is set to lose part of his fight purse for jumping the cage after his UFC 329 win in July. The Nevada State Athletic Commission is fining the Liverpool lightweight for a safety breach, a decision that has drawn sharp criticism from fellow fighters.

Pimblett's Purse Withheld for Celebration Violation

Paddy Pimblett submitted Benoit Saint Denis in under a minute at UFC 329 last month. His immediate celebration saw him leap over the octagon fence to celebrate with his team and the broadcast table. That action violated NSAC rules, leading to a disciplinary hearing this week. The commission has decided to withhold a portion of his earnings as punishment. Fellow UFC 329 winners Max Holloway and Gable Steveson faced identical sanctions for similar celebrations.

Former UFC champion Michael Bisping called the rule "utterly ridiculous" in a video on his YouTube channel. He argued that boxers routinely celebrate on the ropes without penalty. Pimblett's manager, Graham Boylan, also criticized the move, stating the rule "needs to be changed" and lacks common sense. The fine follows a precedent; two years ago, Diego Lopes had $5,000 withheld from a $100,000 purse for a similar infraction.

Pimblett Eyes December Return with Top Lightweights

Despite the fine, Pimblett is already looking ahead. He stated that if he fights again this year, it will be in December. Speaking at Katie Taylor's farewell card in Dublin, he outlined a hit list of desired opponents. "Arman, Gaethje, Ruffy, Charles. There's loads of names," Pimblett said, referencing Arman Tsarukyan, Justin Gaethje, Mauricio Ruffy, and Charles Oliveira. He made it clear the UFC has not formally offered him a fight yet.

The Unbooked Ilia Topuria Grudge Match

A specific rivalry remains unresolved. Pimblett is still interested in fighting Ilia Topuria, who defeated him earlier in his career. "I'd love to smash his head in, lad, but we need to wait and see," Pimblett told Eze Talks Sports. He confirmed the promotion has not contacted him about that matchup. Topuria is also awaiting his next move after a recent loss to Gaethje, leaving the potential grudge match in a holding pattern. Pimblett's position is simple: he wants a high-end fight but will wait for the UFC's call.

• Pimblett is being fined for jumping the cage after his first-round win at UFC 329 in July.
• He is targeting a return to the Octagon in December 2026.
• His desired opponents include Ilia Topuria, Justin Gaethje, and Charles Oliveira.
• The UFC has not officially offered him his next fight.

Pimblett's next steps will be a major point of discussion as the year-end schedule takes shape. His quick rebound win proved he belongs in the lightweight conversation, but his next opponent will define his trajectory in a crowded division.