Sun Jun 15 06:10:00 UTC 2025: **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**Former Featherweight Champion Ilia Topuria Eyes Lightweight Gold, Sets Sights on Feud with Paddy Pimblett**

**LAS VEGAS, NV –** Ilia “El Matador” Topuria is officially moving up to the lightweight division, leaving behind his featherweight title after a dominant reign that included a knockout victory over Alexander Volkanovski and most recently, Max Holloway. The 28-year-old cited the extreme weight cut as the primary reason for the move, setting his sights on becoming a two-division champion.

Topuria’s lightweight debut is slated for UFC 317 on June 28th, where he will face Charles Oliveira for the vacant lightweight championship. However, despite the looming title fight, Topuria has another name on his mind: Paddy “The Baddy” Pimblett.

The rivalry between Topuria and Pimblett dates back to March 2022, when a heated altercation nearly erupted at a UFC London event. While their paths diverged in the years that followed, Topuria’s move to lightweight has reignited the possibility of a future clash.

In a recent interview with ESPN Deportes, Topuria didn’t hold back his feelings about Pimblett. “He’s a hypocrite,” Topuria stated, recalling an earlier press conference where Pimblett allegedly belittled his status. “Now I’m thinking, I have two belts, where are you? Who the f–k is Paddy Pimblett right now? And why would he deserve to fight me? Honestly, if I could choose a fight, I would fight him because I hate him,” Topuria continued. “He’s a pain in the ass. I’d love to give that fight to the fans. For a long time, I believe that in the UFC you haven’t seen a real fight. Two people who really want to fight each other, and what better way than to fight in front of everyone and put on a show.”

Pimblett, currently ranked No. 8 in the lightweight division with a perfect 7-0 UFC record, is coming off a TKO victory over Michael Chandler at UFC 314. A win over a top-five contender could potentially position him as the first challenger for Topuria should he capture the lightweight title.

Topuria’s comments are sure to fuel the already fiery rivalry with Pimblett, setting the stage for a potential grudge match that could electrify the UFC lightweight division. However, it is important to note that Justin Gaethje is also vying for a title shot, his manager claiming “The Highlight” would retire if he is snubbed.

For now, Topuria’s focus remains on Charles Oliveira at UFC 317, where he hopes to add another championship belt to his collection and begin his reign as a two-division king.

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