Paddy Pimblett is open to fighting Justin Gaethje to secure a title opportunity, but he acknowledges that an Ilia Topuria championship win in June could potentially pave a more direct path for him.
Following a decisive finish against Michael Chandler at UFC 314, Pimblett finds himself in a strong position within the competitive lightweight division. With his rival Ilia Topuria set to challenge Charles Oliveira for the vacant title at UFC 317, and Dustin Poirier facing Max Holloway for the BMF belt at UFC 318, Justin Gaethje emerges as a potential opponent for Pimblett.
Speaking to TNT Sports, a UFC broadcast partner, Pimblett discussed the possibility of facing Gaethje and his current standing in the lightweight ranks.
Pimblett commented, acknowledging a fight with Gaethje would be nice
, but added, I was thinking about it the other day: It’s probably better if Ilia wins the belt, because he’ll probably call me out and then I could just fight him. Maybe I wouldn’t even fight Gaethje, [and I could] just fight Topuria.
He further elaborated that a Topuria victory It’d be far better for my career because I’d, more than likely, be his first title defense.
Gaethje had been hoping for a lightweight title shot after his victory over Rafael Fiziev at UFC 313, but will now watch Topuria and Oliveira compete for the belt.
Even if the UFC decides Pimblett needs one more fight, “The Paddy” is eager to face the former interim champion (Gaethje) to demonstrate his title shot readiness and aims for another finish.
Pimblett stated confidently, I know for a fact if I beat Gaethje, I’m next in line [no matter who is champion].
He added about Gaethje, It could be [my next fight], it’s just if he says yes or not, because he’s fighting down the rankings again.
Concluding, he predicted, After what I just did to Chandler, I think I finish Justin Gaethje.
