Gaethje Says Topuria Beats Pimblett 97 of 100 Times Ahead of UFC 329

Q: After a career-best win, is Paddy Pimblett now a more compelling title contender than the injured former champion Ilia Topuria?

Yes. Right now, Pimblett is the more compelling immediate title contender, even if Topuria remains the more proven elite fighter when healthy. The key difference is timing and momentum. Pimblett just produced the best win of his career at UFC 329, submitting Benoit Saint-Denis in 52 seconds with a D’arce choke. It was a statement result against a higher-ranked opponent who had never previously been submitted as a professional. Coming after his competitive five-round loss to Justin Gaethje in January, it gives Pimblett both fresh momentum and a clear case that he belongs near the top of the lightweight division. Topuria’s standing is different. He is still a former champion and, on pure ability, many inside the sport would rank him above Pimblett. Gaethje himself called Topuria “one of the best in the world” and said he is “way more dangerous” than Pimblett. But Topuria is coming off a stoppage loss to Gaethje, suffered orbital fractures, and is unlikely to return until early 2027. That injury layoff weakens his immediate title claim, regardless of his résumé. So the answer depends on whether the question is about short-term matchmaking or long-term hierarchy. For the next title conversation, Pimblett is more compelling because he is active, healthy, coming off a breakout win, and carrying major fan interest. For who is better when both are available, the evidence still favors Topuria.

3 articles · Updated · Yahoo Sports · Jul 10

Justin Gaethje said Ilia Topuria would "beat up" Paddy Pimblett in 97 of 100 matchups, despite Pimblett's improved standing after lasting five rounds with him in January.
Gaethje called Topuria "one of the most dangerous fighters" in the sport, while crediting Pimblett's long, awkward style and unusual angles for making him difficult to solve.
Pimblett returns Saturday at UFC 329 against Benoit Saint-Denis in a key lightweight bout that could shape the next title-challenger picture.
A future Topuria-Pimblett fight remains a major draw because of their rivalry, Pimblett's rising profile and Topuria's push to rebound from the first loss of his career.