Ilia Topuria Targets Paddy Pimblett for UFC Comeback
Former two-division UFC champion Ilia Topuria has identified Paddy Pimblett as his preferred opponent for a comeback expected from April 2027. The 29-year-old is coming off a painful defeat to Justin Gaethje that cost him the lightweight title and ended his unbeaten record. Topuria admitted the loss was the worst moment of his professional career but insisted he was determined to rediscover his winning form.
Despite the setback, Topuria says he has achieved nearly everything he wanted in MMA, having won championships at featherweight and lightweight. He even considered retirement after the defeat but has now shifted his attention towards returning to competition in the second quarter of 2027.
Pimblett, a longtime rival, appears to be his preferred target. Topuria made his intentions clear with a sharp warning to the British fighter, saying he would “eat him like a sausage.” A potential showdown would renew their rivalry and give Topuria an opportunity to rebuild his reputation after losing his title.
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