Paddy Pimblett delivers blunt message to Ilia Topuria as UFC lightweight picture freezes

Paddy Pimblett did not hold back when talking about Ilia Topuria’s long break from fighting. The Liverpool fighter shared his thoughts during a recent public interaction in early January 2026. Pimblett spoke openly about how Topuria’s absence is slowing down the lightweight division and leaving too many fighters waiting without answers.

The comments came as the UFC confirmed an interim title bout instead of waiting on the champion. With no clear return date for Topuria, the division is moving forward, and Pimblett made it clear he has mixed feelings about the situation.

Paddy Pimblett calls out Ilia Topuria over long layoff and stalled lightweight division

Paddy Pimblett shared his blunt view while speaking alongside Tom Aspinall during a recent fan interaction in the United Kingdom. The conversation took place earlier this month as questions came up about the future of the UFC lightweight title.

“People are saying Ilia Topuria won’t be back for at least a year,” Pimblett said. “I don’t know his personal situation, but if it drags on, it could be two years.”

Pimblett explained that long gaps hurt fighters who are ready to compete now. He pointed to how waiting can freeze rankings and delay chances for others.

“If he’s going to sit out that long, I’d rather him just vacate and stop holding the division up,” he added. At the same time, Pimblett admitted the situation is tricky.



He still wants to fight Topuria one day. “It’s a catch-22,” he said. “I want that fight, but I don’t want to be stuck waiting like Tom was waiting for Jon Jones.”

While Pimblett voiced frustration, Ilia Topuria showed support for the UFC’s decision. The lightweight champion spoke to ESPN Deportes in an interview released this week.

He confirmed he had already discussed his situation with the UFC. “Because of my personal situation, they knew I couldn’t compete in January,” Topuria said.

“We talked, and they decided to make an interim title fight.” That fight will see Paddy Pimblett face Justin Gaethje for the interim lightweight belt at UFC 324.

The bout is scheduled for later this year in the United States, with the UFC choosing action over delay.

Topuria praised both fighters. “It’s well-deserved for both of them,” he said. “But in the end, they will have to deal with the real deal.”

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