The MMA community, especially the UFC fan base, has seen numerous intense rivalries, some of which have lasted for years. Meanwhile, some other rivalries are just beginning to develop. One of these emerging rivalries is between Ilia Topuria and Paddy Pimblett. After Topuria’s recent victory over Max Holloway, Pimblett responded to that win.
Ilia Topuria made his first title defense last weekend at UFC 308. Many believed that Holloway could derail Topuria’s hype train. However, that didn’t happen, as Topuria knocked out Holloway in the third round. While several people praised his performance, Paddy Pimblett challenged Topuria. As such, Pimblett asserted confidence to beat the Spaniard in a potential fight.
Hand sanitizer boy with the win, heavy. Well done, Ilia. Give you your due, lad. 16-0, hand sanitizer boy. Can’t wait for him to come back up to lightweight. Still think I’d beat him. I really do. I still think I’d beat him, lad. Whether he’s just beat Max Holloway or not. I still think I’d beat him, lad, by kicking him on the feet or taking him down and submitting him…
Paddy Pimblett on his official YouTube channel
These two have had an ongoing feud for a long time now. It began with an altercation between Topuria and Pimblett three years ago during UFC Fight Night in London. According to Pimblett, Topuria initiated the brawl by jumping towards him. Fortunately, security quickly intervened and separated them. Despite this, Topuria and Pimblett have continued their rivalry, which is evident in Scouser’s recent comments.
Paddy Pimblett reacts to Ilia Topuria’s knockout:
“Can’t wait for [Ilia] to come back up to lightweight. Still think I’d beat him…
Can’t wait for Volk to come back and beat you up. If he doesn’t, I’m willing to any time.”
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) October 27, 2024
Speaking of Pimblett’s status in the promotion, the Scouser is currently on a six-fight win streak in the UFC. His most recent victory was at UFC 304 against Bobby ‘King’ Green. In addition to his impressive fight record, Pimblett has gained significant popularity. Interestingly, many in the community have recognized Pimblett’s growing popularity as a notable achievement.
Beef with Paddy Pimblett has raised Ilia Topuria’s popularity, says UFC legend
Ilia “El Matador” Topuria is known for his exceptional striking skills, which have led him to defeat several prominent opponents in his division. However, during the initial days of his UFC career, he wasn’t quite popular despite maintaining an undefeated record. According to UFC legend Chael Sonnen, Topuria’s beef with Paddy Pimblett significantly boosted his popularity during that time.
Sonnen is a notable figure in the UFC community. He is majorly known for his role as an analyst and for previewing intriguing matchups. While discussing the fight between Holloway and Topuria, the UFC legend shared an interesting story about how one of his friends introduced him to Topuria by mentioning the altercation between Topuria and Pimblett.
First time I hear about him [Topuria] is from my partner Ryan Parsons, who’s watching something live and calling me and saying that Paddy the Baddy and some other guy on the card are throwing water bottles at one another and Paddy nicknames the guy ‘Mr. Water Bottle’ or it might have been hand sanitizer…
Chael Sonnen on his official YouTube channel
At present, Topuria appears to be more popular than Pimblett. This rise in Topuria’s prominence can be attributed to his consecutive championship fights, in which he emerged victorious both times. Consequently, many people within the promotion are praising the UFC featherweight champion and see GOAT potential in him.
