Paddy Pimblett thinks Ilia Topuria might have to vacate his UFC lightweight championship next year if he doesn’t make a timely return.
Topuria has announced his hiatus from fighting due to personal reasons. In his absence, the promotion has announced an interim lightweight championship bout, which will headline UFC 324. Justin Gaethje and Pimblett will fight for the interim strap, and the winner is expected to meet Topuria in an unification bout when the latter returns. The Georgian-Spaniard is expected to return after the first quarter of 2026. However, if he fails to do so, ‘The Baddy’ thinks ‘El Matador’ might have to vacate.