UFC lightweight contender Paddy Pimblett has launched a sharp critique against champion Ilia Topuria, blaming his prolonged absence for bringing the division to a standstill. The outspoken Liverpool fighter shared his unfiltered views during a public fan interaction in the United Kingdom in early January 2026, expressing frustration over the stalled title picture.
Pimblett's Frustration Boils Over
Speaking alongside fellow fighter Tom Aspinall, Paddy Pimblett did not mince words regarding the uncertainty surrounding the champion. "People are saying Ilia Topuria won't be back for at least a year," Pimblett stated. He further speculated that the layoff could extend even longer, potentially reaching two years, though he acknowledged not knowing Topuria's personal circumstances.
Pimblett argued that such lengthy gaps actively harm active fighters ready to compete, freezing rankings and blocking opportunities. His solution was blunt: "If he's going to sit out that long, I'd rather him just vacate and stop holding the division up." However, he admitted to being in a "catch-22" situation, as he personally desires a future fight with Topuria but does not want to be left in limbo, drawing a parallel to Tom Aspinall's long wait for a fight with Jon Jones.
UFC's Interim Solution and Topuria's Response
With no clear return date for the champion, the UFC has decided to move forward. The promotion confirmed it will crown an interim lightweight champion rather than wait indefinitely. This sets the stage for Paddy Pimblett to face Justin Gaethje for the interim lightweight belt at UFC 324, scheduled for later this year in the United States.
In an interview with ESPN Deportes this week, Ilia Topuria showed support for the UFC's decisive action. He confirmed that due to his personal situation, which prevented a January defense, discussions with the UFC led to the interim title fight. Topuria praised both Pimblett and Gaethje, calling the opportunity "well-deserved for both of them." He concluded with a confident warning for the interim winner, stating, "But in the end, they will have to deal with the real deal."
Division Moves Forward Amid Uncertainty
The creation of an interim title marks a pivotal moment for the UFC's lightweight division. It signals the promotion's preference for active competition over prolonged waiting periods. While Pimblett has secured his shot at interim gold, his comments highlight a broader sentiment of frustration among contenders stuck in a queue behind an inactive champion.
The situation leaves a cloud of uncertainty over the division's ultimate unification. The winner of Pimblett vs. Gaethje will hold a temporary crown, but the legitimacy of the true championship will remain in question until Ilia Topuria makes his return to the octagon.
