Topuria Back in the Gym as Pimblett Angles for McGregor-Style Rivalry
Ilia Topuria has returned to training after his loss to Gaethje, while Paddy Pimblett pitches a TUF coaching showdown.
Ilia Topuria is back in the gym. The former two-division champion shared photos on Instagram hitting mitts with the caption "Back to the office" after receiving medical clearance following his loss to Justin Gaethje at UFC Freedom 250 in June, per Sherdog.
Topuria's corner stopped the fight after the fourth round due to significant facial damage that compromised his vision. Upon announcing his return to training, Topuria called for a rematch with Gaethje and accused the American of "illegally loading his gloves," per Sherdog.
Meanwhile, Paddy Pimblett is trying to position himself as Topuria's next opponent. The Liverpool fighter, who submitted Benoit Saint Denis in 52 seconds at UFC 329, told LowKick MMA he wants to use Conor McGregor's psychological approach against Jose Aldo as a blueprint for dismantling Topuria.
"I think me and Ilia would have a brilliant season of The Ultimate Fighter because I'd get under his skin so much that, when we commence the fight, I'd beat him just as McGregor beat Aldo," Pimblett said. He added that he would "beat him that badly and send him down to featherweight."
Dana White has stated a Pimblett vs. Topuria bout could headline a numbered UFC event without a title on the line, per LowKick MMA. Topuria's team expects his return to competition in February 2027.
Topuria accusing Gaethje of loading his gloves is not a great look. Justin beat him fair and square, and the corner stoppage was the right call. Sometimes you just lose. Own it, come back better.
That said, Topuria being back in training this quickly tells you something about his mentality. The guy is a competitor down to his bones. He's not going to sit around feeling sorry for himself.
Pimblett as the next dance partner? I'm here for it. The McGregor comparison is a stretch, but Paddy's not wrong that he could get inside Topuria's head. Ilia takes the bait on trash talk every single time. If Dana can make that fight for a numbered card early next year, it sells itself. Topuria by finish is probably the smart money, but Pimblett has earned the right to be in that conversation after what he did to Saint Denis.
