Current featherweight champion Ilia Topuria has stated he would accept a fight against Conor McGregor if offered by the UFC. This would be McGregor`s return fight and Topuria`s first defense since claiming the title.
In a recent appearance on the Joe Rogan Experience podcast, Topuria acknowledged the possibility of a McGregor fight, noting Conor`s potential comeback and the UFC`s history of offering opportunities to veteran fighters. He revealed that there had been preliminary discussions about a potential matchup.
While a McGregor fight is enticing, Topuria admitted that a bout with Paddy Pimblett is even more appealing to him. He highlighted the excitement surrounding a potential clash with Pimblett, especially if it could be held at the Bernabéu Stadium in Spain.
Topuria believes a fight against Pimblett in a large venue like the Bernabéu, which can accommodate 80,000 fans and has a retractable roof, would be a massive event. He also pointed out the ease of travel for fans from England to Spain, making it a potentially huge draw.
Although Topuria is open to fighting McGregor, his preference for a Pimblett fight, particularly in Spain, is clear. He even playfully referred to Pimblett as “that pimple,” adding a personal touch to the potential rivalry.