UFC lightweight contender Paddy Pimblett believes he could become the undisputed UFC champion without ever stepping into the Octagon against current titleholder Ilia Topuria.
The comments come after Topuria recently announced he would be taking time away from the sport to address a personal matter. In response, UFC CEO Dana White confirmed that Pimblett will face Justin Gaethje for the interim UFC lightweight title in the main event of UFC 324 on January 24.
The matchup against Gaethje represents the biggest fight of Pimblett’s career to date. Victory would normally set up a unification bout against Topuria, but Pimblett believes circumstances could see him crowned champion without that showdown ever happening.
Speaking to ESPN Deportes’ Carlos Contreras Legaspi, Pimblett expressed sympathy for Topuria while acknowledging the uncertain timeline surrounding his return.
“He’s got a lot going on in his personal life. I wish him nothing but the best,” Pimblett said.
“That has got nothing to do with me and him fighting. That’s his family, and I hope everything goes well.”
Pimblett suggested that if Topuria remains sidelined for an extended period, the UFC may have no choice but to strip the champion of his belt.
“If he doesn’t come back by June or July, then he might have to vacate his belt. I’ll become undisputed champion without even fighting,” Pimblett added.
The Liverpool native has been unbeaten in the UFC since his debut in 2021, when he defeated Luigi Vendramini. His most significant win came earlier this year at UFC 314, where he secured a career-defining victory over Michael Chandler in April.
Since that bout, Pimblett has not competed, making his upcoming clash with Gaethje a pivotal moment in his title aspirations.
