Paddy Pimblett slams ‘overhyped’ Ilia Topuria: claims will ruin Ilia’s career if he moves up to Lightweight

The UFC is no stranger to heated rivalries, and one of the most intense feuds brewing today is between Paddy Pimblett and Ilia Topuria. Pimblett, known for his outspoken personality and brash confidence, has recently made headlines with his scathing critique of Topuria’s move from featherweight to lightweight.

With Topuria officially transitioning into the 155-pound division, Pimblett has gone as far as to say that the move “will be the downfall of his career.” But is Pimblett’s claim justified, or is it just another case of UFC trash talk meant to stir up drama? Let’s dive deep into the history of their rivalry, the implications of Topuria’s weight class change, and the potential for a future fight between these two fiery competitors.

Paddy Pimblett’s Bold Words: Why He Believes Topuria Won’t Succeed at Lightweight

Pimblett didn’t hold back in his criticism of Topuria, making it clear that he doesn’t believe the Spanish-Georgian fighter belongs in the lightweight division.

“I want that fight, just to prove everyone wrong. He’s a midget, lad. He’s not a lightweight—he should not be fighting at lightweight. He should have stuck to featherweight; it’ll be the downfall of his career.”

Pimblett also accused Topuria of trying to imitate Conor McGregor, pointing out the similar tattoos on his chest and back and claiming that Topuria “thinks he’s better than he is.”

For Pimblett, the argument is simple: Topuria lacks the physical size and natural attributes to succeed in a weight class where fighters are larger, stronger, and more powerful.

Ilia Topuria’s Move to Lightweight: A Strategic Shift or Career Suicide?

Ilia Topuria, the undefeated UFC Featherweight Champion (16-0), has decided to take his talents to lightweight, a move that has been met with mixed reactions from fans and analysts.

Why Move to Lightweight?

There are several potential reasons behind Topuria’s decision:

Bigger Challenges: Topuria has already conquered the featherweight division with dominant performances, including his historic knockout of Max Holloway at UFC 308—marking the first time Holloway had ever been finished in his career. A move to lightweight allows him to test himself against elite competition like Islam Makhachev, Charles Oliveira, and Justin Gaethje.
Weight Cutting Issues: Many fighters eventually move up a weight class due to difficulties cutting weight. If Topuria has struggled to make the 145-pound limit consistently, a move to lightweight could be a more sustainable option for his career longevity.
UFC Pressure: Reports suggest that the UFC may have forced Topuria to vacate his featherweight title, signaling that the promotion wanted him to focus solely on the lightweight division. If true, this means Topuria didn’t necessarily choose this path but was nudged in that direction.

What Are the Risks?

Moving up in weight isn’t always a smooth transition. Many dominant featherweights have struggled at lightweight, including former champions like:

José Aldo: Struggled after moving up and eventually retired.
Frankie Edgar: Faced bigger, stronger opponents and had mixed results.
Max Holloway: Couldn’t secure a title at lightweight despite being one of the greatest featherweights ever.

Pimblett’s critique of Topuria centers around his size and power—two factors that are often crucial in lightweight success. Fighters in the 155-pound division are typically:

Taller with longer reach
Naturally stronger and heavier on fight night
Capable of absorbing more damage

At 5’7″ with a 69-inch reach, Topuria will be giving up size and length to almost every top-ranked lightweight contender. The question remains: will his power and skill compensate for this disadvantage?

The Pimblett-Topuria Feud: A Rivalry Years in the Making

This isn’t just about weight classes—Pimblett and Topuria have a personal grudge dating back to 2022.

The 2022 Incident: An Explosive Confrontation

During UFC London fight week in March 2022, Pimblett made controversial comments regarding the conflict between Russia and Georgia. Topuria, of Georgian descent, took serious offense and confronted Pimblett in a hotel lobby.

The altercation quickly escalated into a physical scuffle, with Topuria throwing a bottle at Pimblett before security intervened. This heated moment solidified their bad blood and made it clear that a future fight between them would be inevitable.

Since then, both fighters have continued to trash talk each other in interviews and on social media, keeping the rivalry alive.

Topuria’s Response to Pimblett’s Comments

Topuria, never one to shy away from a fight, fired back at Pimblett’s remarks with an ominous warning:

“When I see you again, I will take your f**ing head off.”

Clearly, the tension between these two fighters hasn’t cooled down, and if they ever step inside the octagon together, expect fireworks.

The Potential Pimblett vs. Topuria Fight: Breaking Down the Matchup

If a Paddy Pimblett vs. Ilia Topuria fight were to happen, it would be one of the most highly anticipated lightweight showdowns in recent memory.

Paddy Pimblett: The Baddy’s Strengths & Weaknesses

Record: 20-3 (UFC undefeated)
Style: High-pressure grappling, aggressive striking

✅ Strengths: Slick submissions, elite grappling, strong chin
❌ Weaknesses: Defensive striking, inconsistent cardio

Pimblett has been criticized for his lack of high-level competition so far in the UFC. Many believe he hasn’t yet faced a real test—which is why a fight against Topuria could be his moment to prove himself as a true lightweight contender.

Ilia Topuria: The Matador’s Keys to Victory

Record: 16-0 (Undefeated)
Style: Explosive power, elite striking, strong wrestling

✅ Strengths: Knockout power, high fight IQ, strong takedown defense
❌ Weaknesses: Size disadvantage, unknown durability at lightweight

Topuria is one of the most well-rounded prospects in MMA today. If his power and speed translate well to the lightweight division, he could quickly rise through the rankings.

Who Would Win? Expert Predictions

If the fight stays standing, Topuria’s superior striking and knockout power give him the edge.
If the fight goes to the ground, Pimblett’s submission skills could pose a threat.
Overall: Many analysts favor Topuria, but Pimblett has proven to be a wildcard, capable of pulling off surprising wins.

Final Thoughts

Paddy Pimblett believes that moving up will be Ilia Topuria’s downfall, but only time will tell whether that prediction holds true.

While Pimblett may see Topuria as an overhyped McGregor imitator, the reality is that Topuria has proven himself against elite competition—something Pimblett has yet to do. If Topuria succeeds at lightweight, he could be on a fast track to a title shot.

But if Pimblett and Topuria ever face off in the octagon, one thing is certain: it will be one of the most explosive fights in recent UFC history.

Would you like to see Paddy Pimblett vs. Ilia Topuria? Who do you think would win?