Dana White Denies Ilia Topuria vs. Paddy Pimblett Fight Rumors
Dana White recently addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding a potential matchup between Ilia Topuria and Paddy Pimblett. As the undefeated UFC lightweight champion, Topuria has yet to schedule his first title defense since defeating Charles Oliveira by knockout at UFC 317 this past June.
Current Status of Ilia Topuria’s Title Defense
Topuria’s victory has placed him in the spotlight, leading to a confrontation with longtime rival Pimblett immediately after the fight. Fans eagerly anticipated a clash between the two, but White has not confirmed any plans for this matchup. During a discussion with TNT Fight Sports, White emphasized his cautious approach regarding future fights.
White Reacts to Fight Rumors
Despite the buzz surrounding a possible duel between Topuria and Pimblett as early as January, when the UFC launches its new broadcast deal with Paramount, White remains noncommittal. He stated, “It’s a fun fight, people would like to see that. But as of right now, we haven’t made that fight.”
Paddy Pimblett’s Ranking and Potential Path
Paddy Pimblett currently holds the No. 6 spot in the UFC’s official rankings. However, to solidify his claim for a title shot, he may need to defeat a higher-ranked opponent. Nevertheless, his undefeated record of 7-0 in the UFC, coupled with his rivalry with Topuria, keeps him in the discussion for a championship fight.
Other Potential Matches
During the same conversation, White also mentioned Lerone Murphy, another undefeated British fighter. Murphy is eyeing a title shot against featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski. Despite interest surrounding both fighters, no official matchmaking has taken place yet. White humorously suggested he could not finalize multiple fights on the spot.
Topuria’s Aspirations for a Fight in Spain
One exciting prospect for Topuria fans is the possibility of hosting a fight in Spain. Topuria, nicknamed “El Matador,” has expressed a desire to bring an event to his home country, specifically to the renowned Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid. White recognized the potential of hosting a fight in Spain, regarding it as a “no-brainer.”
Conclusion
While the future is uncertain for Topuria and Pimblett, the UFC remains open to exploring various matchups. Fans will have to wait to see how events unfold in the lead-up to Topuria’s first title defense.
