Pimblett vs. Gaethje? Paddy The Baddy Discusses Next Fight Options and Title Dreams
The MMA world is buzzing after Liverpool’s own Paddy “The Baddy” Pimblett revealed his potential next opponents. While the charismatic lightweight has his sights set on UFC featherweight champion Ilia Topuria, it appears Justin Gaethje might be the more likely dance partner for an October showdown in Abu Dhabi.
Just when we thought the lightweight division couldn’t get any more interesting…
The Scouse Sensation’s Next Move
Pimblett (21-3) has been on a tear since joining the UFC, captivating fans with his personality almost as much as his performances in the octagon. After dismantling Tony Ferguson at UFC 296, the 29-year-old Liverpudlian is clearly ready to test himself against the division’s elite.
I’ve followed Paddy’s career since his Cage Warriors days, and let me tell you – this isn’t just promotional talk. The Baddy genuinely believes he can hang with anyone, including the frightening Topuria who recently dethroned Alexander Volkanovski in spectacular fashion.
Topuria vs. Pimblett: The Backstory
The beef between Pimblett and Topuria isn’t manufactured. These two have genuine animosity dating back to 2022 when they had a hotel altercation where Pimblett allegedly threw hand sanitizer at the Georgian-Spanish fighter. Since then, the trash talk has only intensified.
“I’d love nothing more than to punch that little man’s head in,” Pimblett said regarding Topuria. “But he’s probably too busy enjoying his belt to come back up to lightweight anytime soon.”
Why Gaethje Makes More Sense Right Now
While the Topuria fight would be box office gold, Justin “The Highlight” Gaethje presents a more realistic option for Pimblett’s next bout. Coming off a devastating flying knee KO loss to Max Holloway, Gaethje remains one of the division’s most dangerous fighters and a perfect test to see if Pimblett truly belongs among the elite.
| Fighter | Current Ranking | Last Fight | Fighting Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paddy Pimblett | Unranked | Win vs. Tony Ferguson | Well-rounded with submission focus |
| Justin Gaethje | #3 Lightweight | Loss vs. Max Holloway | Violent striker with wrestling background |
| Ilia Topuria | Featherweight Champion | Win vs. Alexander Volkanovski | Precision striker with submission skills |
What This Fight Means for Pimblett’s Career
A win over someone of Gaethje’s caliber would catapult Pimblett into the top 10 and silence critics who claim he’s been protected from elite competition. The stylistic matchup would be fascinating – Gaethje’s forward pressure and leg kicks against Pimblett’s crafty grappling and improving standup.
But let’s be real – this is a massive step up in competition. Gaethje has shared the cage with Khabib Nurmagomedov, Charles Oliveira, and Dustin Poirier. Pimblett’s UFC opponents don’t carry anywhere near that pedigree.
Abu Dhabi in October: The Perfect Stage
The UFC’s return to Abu Dhabi provides an ideal international showcase for Pimblett. The promotion has historically stacked these cards with significant matchups, and Pimblett’s growing global appeal makes him a natural fit.
“Abu Dhabi would be sick,” Pimblett noted. “The atmosphere there is always mental, and those fans appreciate good fighting. Whether it’s Topuria or Gaethje or someone else, I’m ready to put on a show.”
Can Pimblett Really Compete at This Level?
That’s the million-dollar question. While his personality and marketability are undeniable, skeptics point to defensive holes in his game that elite fighters like Gaethje would exploit mercilessly.
I’ve watched every minute of Paddy’s UFC career, and while he’s shown impressive heart and finishing ability, he’s also been hurt in fights where he was heavily favored. Gaethje is the kind of opponent who punishes every mistake, usually with fight-ending consequences.
What’s Next for The Baddy?
Whether it’s Gaethje, Topuria, or another contender, Pimblett’s next fight will tell us everything we need to know about his ceiling in this sport. Is he a future champion as he confidently claims, or is his ceiling as an entertaining mid-card fighter?
One thing’s for certain – we’ll all be watching. Love him or hate him, Paddy Pimblett has become must-see TV in the UFC’s deepest division.
Who do you want to see Pimblett face next? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!
Source: BBC Sport