Dana White might not like the concept, however UFC play-by-play man Jon Anik thinks Ilia Topuria vs. Paddy Pimblett is an “monumental” combat for the promotion.
Following his beautiful first-round KO of Charles Oliveira at UFC 317, Topuria engaged in a fiery faceoff with Pimblett that rapidly developed right into a shoving match. Since then, followers have been chomping on the bit to see the 2 sq. off contained in the Octagon.
Sadly, White didn’t share that enthusiasm, venting frustration over the now-viral encounter and suggesting that regardless of how unhealthy everybody needs it, Topuria vs. Pimblett shouldn’t be the combat to make. Not less than, not proper now.
Anik disagrees.
“Yeah, I imply, I believe an Ilia Topuria–Paddy Pimblett combat is totally monumental,” Anik informed MMA Junkie. “Typically it’s exhausting to quantify simply how huge a star Topuria is within the U.S. versus his world attain, however there isn’t any doubt that he’s going to be the A-side in nearly any equation.
“And Paddy Pimblett—I don’t should inform you—strikes an amazing variety of needles. So, yeah, I believe that combat has a practical chance.”
UFC might produce other plans for paddy pimblett
The hype surrounding Topuria vs. Pimblett might in the end power the UFC’s hand. In any case, the promotion is within the enterprise of making a living, and if the thrill is any indicator, this combat would usher in a truckload of it. However White’s frustration with the post-UFC 317 incident between Topuria and Pimblett might have one thing to do with the promotion already reserving the latter elsewhere.
Lately, UFC 319 headliner Dricus Du Plessis advised that Paddy Pimblett would co-headline the August 16 occasion in opposition to Justin Gaethje, the winner possible transferring on to problem Topuria in late 2025 or early 2026.
As thrilling as Pimblett vs. Gaethje sounds, it could come as a little bit of a disappointment to followers after seeing the scouser’s intense staredown with Topuria.
