Paddy Pimblett has now presented evidence that could threaten Ilia Topuria over alleged cheating at UFC 317.

The heated rivalry between Paddy Pimblett and Ilia Topuria has just escalated to an entirely new level. In a stunning revelation, Pimblett has presented what he claims is “undeniable evidence” of Ilia Topuria allegedly cheating during his first-round KO victory over Charles Oliveira at UFC 317. If proven true, these allegations could shake the very foundations of the lightweight division and cast a dark shadow over Topuria’s reign as champion.

Pimblett’s Shocking Accusation

Speaking in an exclusive interview on Monday, Pimblett didn’t mince words:

“I said it before and I’ll say it again: Topuria’s a fake champ. Now I’ve got the proof. I got my hands on footage and test results that show something wasn’t right at UFC 317. If the UFC is serious about integrity, they’ll investigate this properly.”

According to Pimblett, the “evidence” includes video analysis, suspicious corner communications, and flagged testing data. While Pimblett did not publicly disclose all the details, he claims to have submitted his findings to both the UFC and the Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC).

What Are the Allegations?

Sources close to Pimblett allege that Topuria may have used illegal hand wraps, potentially giving him an unfair advantage in the power of his punches. There are also whispers of IV rehydration violations, a practice banned by USADA under certain conditions.

Pimblett’s team further claims that audio from Topuria’s corner contains suspicious phrases suggesting they were aware of “bending the rules.”

They also cite irregularities in Topuria’s pre-fight drug testing timeline, claiming that certain sample results were delayed or inconclusive—a red flag according to several anti-doping experts.

Topuria’s Camp Fires Back

Ilia Topuria’s team wasted no time in dismissing the accusations. His manager issued a fiery statement:

“This is nothing more than a desperate attempt from Paddy Pimblett, who has done nothing to earn a title shot, to stay relevant. Ilia Topuria is a clean athlete, and we welcome any investigation.”

Topuria himself responded on Instagram:

“Cry more, Paddy. You’ll never be champ.”

He then posted a video of himself training with the caption, “Work hard, speak less,” further taunting Pimblett’s accusations.

UFC and NSAC Stay Silent… For Now

So far, the UFC and NSAC have yet to issue official statements regarding Pimblett’s claims. However, insiders report that UFC CEO Dana White is aware of the situation and has instructed compliance teams to “gather all the facts before making a public comment.”

Fan Reactions: Divided Opinions

Fans are already taking sides:

• “Paddy’s just jealous. Topuria smashed Oliveira fair and square.”

• “If there’s proof, this could be bigger than anything we’ve seen since the TJ Dillashaw scandal.”

• “Let’s not forget Paddy ducked Topuria twice before.”

• “Finally someone brave enough to expose the truth about Topuria.”

Social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram exploded with debates, with hashtags like #TopuriaCheated and #FreeTheLightweightTitle trending within hours of Pimblett’s interview.

What Happens to the Lightweight Title?

If Pimblett’s evidence holds up and Topuria is found guilty of any infractions, several outcomes could be on the table:

• Title could be stripped from Topuria.

• A rematch with Oliveira might be ordered.

• Pimblett could potentially be granted an interim title shot.

• Topuria could face a suspension or fines.

But if the claims fall apart, Pimblett could face disciplinary action for making false accusations, potentially damaging his reputation in the process.

The History of Bad Blood

This controversy is just the latest chapter in the bitter rivalry between Pimblett and Topuria. Their feud began years ago with an altercation in a London hotel and has since played out on social media, press conferences, and in the octagon.

Topuria has consistently called Paddy “a clown,” while Pimblett refers to Ilia as “the most overrated fighter in the UFC.”

The two fighters nearly clashed backstage at UFC 282, and Dana White had to step in to keep them apart.

Could This Lead to a Title Fight?

Ironically, this controversy could fast-track Pimblett into a title fight. UFC matchmakers love a story, and few stories in MMA right now are bigger than Pimblett vs. Topuria. A showdown at UFC Spain or Madison Square Garden in November could generate massive pay-per-view buys.

Pimblett’s popularity in the UK and Topuria’s star power in Spain could make this one of the biggest international grudge matches in UFC history.

Pimblett: “I’ll Expose Him in the Cage if They Don’t Suspend Him First”

Pimblett ended his interview with a clear message:

“Whether it’s in a courtroom or an octagon, I’ll expose Topuria for who he really is. He knows he can’t beat me clean.”

He added that even if the governing bodies fail to act, he’ll “do what needs to be done” when they finally meet in the cage.

What’s Next?

• The Nevada State Athletic Commission is expected to review Pimblett’s complaint within the next two weeks.

• The UFC is considering adding a lightweight title fight to its November pay-per-view event.

• Fans are anxiously awaiting any word from USADA regarding potential testing violations.

Meanwhile, Topuria is expected to continue training, seemingly unfazed by the accusations.

The Bigger Picture: MMA’s Ongoing Battle With Integrity

This controversy reopens the conversation about PEDs, illegal fight preparations, and the role of athletic commissions in ensuring a level playing field in MMA.

Instances like TJ Dillashaw’s EPO suspension, Jon Jones’ various controversies, and Anderson Silva’s post-fight test failures have cast long shadows over the sport’s credibility.

If Topuria is proven guilty, it would be the most high-profile case since Dillashaw and could trigger stricter enforcement of anti-doping measures.

Fan Theories and Speculation

Fans and pundits have begun speculating on what might have happened behind the scenes. Some claim Topuria looked unusually muscular and powerful against Oliveira, suggesting possible banned substances. Others argue that no amount of performance enhancement can explain his elite-level timing and striking.

One fan posted, “Even if he cheated, you can’t fake fight IQ.”

Could This Impact the Lightweight Rankings?

If Topuria is suspended or stripped, the lightweight rankings could see massive shifts:

• Charles Oliveira could reclaim his spot at the top.

• Pimblett could rise dramatically.

• Arman Tsarukyan and Beneil Dariush could be back in the title conversation.

How Will Dana White Handle This?

Dana White is famously protective of his champions, but he’s also committed to maintaining the UFC’s image. Should credible evidence emerge, White could be forced to strip Topuria and book a new title fight.

Alternatively, if the accusations don’t hold water, White may publicly reprimand Pimblett and book Topuria against a different contender.

Final Thoughts: A Division in Turmoil

The lightweight division, long considered the deepest in MMA, is suddenly in chaos. Whether Ilia Topuria’s legacy stands strong or crumbles under the weight of these allegations remains to be seen.

For now, one thing is clear: Paddy Pimblett has thrown the first punch in a battle that could redefine the careers of both fighters.

Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely over the coming weeks as the investigation unfolds. Will this end in vindication for Topuria, or will Pimblett’s claims expose one of the biggest scandals in UFC history?