Paddy Pimblett will learn from Khamzat Chimaev’s blueprint in his upcoming title fight with Ilia Topuria and 1 reason Topuria should be wary of Pimblett

The world of UFC lightweight competition has never been short of drama, rivalries, and larger-than-life characters. Among them, Paddy “The Baddy” Pimblett has emerged as one of the most polarizing and exciting fighters of the new generation. The Liverpool native is not only adored for his charisma and fan-first approach but also respected for his relentless ground game and never-back-down mentality.

Now, as whispers grow louder about a possible title fight against Ilia Topuria, the reigning lightweight champion, Pimblett is making headlines with a bold new approach. In a recent YouTube training video, he revealed that he is sharpening his striking timing—a known weakness—while also claiming that his grappling is as smothering and dominant as Khamzat Chimaev, one of UFC’s most feared fighters.

This combination of humility, strategy, and confident self-branding has set the MMA community ablaze. Fans and analysts alike are eager to know: Can Pimblett realistically borrow from Chimaev’s playbook to dethrone a knockout artist like Topuria?

This article takes a deep dive into Pimblett’s admission, his comparison to Chimaev, the stylistic clash against Topuria, and the broader commercial implications for the UFC.

Paddy Pimblett’s Current Standing in the UFC

Paddy Pimblett has built a reputation as one of the most recognizable names in MMA today. Following his dominant victory over Michael Chandler in April 2025, he climbed to the #7 spot in the lightweight division, firmly establishing himself as a legitimate contender.

While Pimblett’s grappling has carried him to many of his wins, fans and critics have long pointed out flaws in his striking—particularly his timing when trading blows with elite-level strikers. Instead of brushing off criticism, Pimblett has embraced it. He openly admitted:

“My timing in striking is what I need to sharpen. I know it, and I’m working on it every single day.”

This level of self-awareness is rare in combat sports. Most fighters protect their image at all costs. Pimblett, however, has turned his perceived weakness into a rallying point, showing fans he is committed to becoming a complete fighter.

The “Priceless Comparison” to Khamzat Chimaev

The most headline-grabbing revelation came when Pimblett compared his grappling dominance to that of Khamzat Chimaev. In his own words:

“Once I get you down… I smother you. You’re not getting up.”

This comparison was not random. Chimaev is known for his suffocating ground control, neutralizing even world-class opponents with relentless pressure. By aligning himself with Chimaev’s style, Pimblett achieves several things:

1. Psychological warfare – Sending a clear message to Ilia Topuria that he plans to drag him into uncomfortable waters.

2. Media traction – Chimaev is one of the most marketable names in MMA. Associating with him keeps Pimblett in the headlines.

3. Fan belief – Pimblett’s fanbase now has a reason to believe their fighter’s grappling can match the elite standard.

This tactic is as much about marketing as it is about strategy. Pimblett isn’t just training like Chimaev; he’s branding himself as the “next smothering force” of the lightweight division.

Targeting His Weakest Link: Striking Timing

Unlike many fighters who double down on strengths, Pimblett is addressing the elephant in the room: his striking timing.

Against an opponent like Ilia Topuria, whose crisp boxing and knockout power have dismantled rivals, timing is everything. A mistimed jab, a late counter, or a poorly executed entry for a takedown could spell disaster. Pimblett knows this. His current training camp, as revealed in the YouTube footage, focuses heavily on:

• Counter-striking drills to improve reaction speed.

• Distance management to close the gap safely.

• Combination precision for better offensive timing.

• Defensive movement to minimize Topuria’s power shots.

This commitment to improvement mirrors the journey of past champions like Khabib Nurmagomedov, who turned his once-questioned striking into a reliable complement to his world-class grappling.

The Brewing Rivalry with Ilia Topuria

The potential clash between Paddy Pimblett and Ilia Topuria is not just another fight—it’s a rivalry years in the making.

Their animosity dates back to UFC 282, where heated exchanges and near-confrontations planted the seeds of conflict. Since then, verbal shots have only intensified. Fans crave authentic rivalries, and Pimblett vs. Topuria feels as genuine as it gets.

• Pimblett’s strength: Grappling, submissions, relentless pace.

• Topuria’s strength: Precision striking, knockout power, calm composure.

This “grappler vs. striker” storyline is one of MMA’s oldest and most compelling archetypes. It guarantees drama both inside and outside the Octagon.

Timing and Marketability in UFC’s New Era

The UFC is entering a pivotal moment in its commercial history. With the new broadcast partnership with Paramount starting in 2026, the organization is actively seeking blockbuster fights to kick off this new chapter.

A title fight between Pimblett and Topuria fits perfectly:

• Massive fan engagement – Pimblett has one of the biggest fan followings in the UK and worldwide.

• Champion credibility – Topuria, undefeated and dominant, adds legitimacy.

• Storyline drama – Years of tension, stylistic contrast, and trash talk create a ready-made narrative.

• Perfect timing – Early 2026 aligns with UFC’s need for a marquee event.

Dana White and the UFC brass know that the Pimblett–Topuria rivalry has the potential to become the next McGregor vs. Khabib in terms of hype and pay-per-view draw.

Deep Dive – Style Clash Analysis

Paddy Pimblett’s Blueprint

• Primary Weapon: Grappling and submissions.

• Secondary Focus: Improving striking timing.

• Game Plan vs Topuria: Close distance quickly, secure takedowns, impose top control.

Ilia Topuria’s Blueprint

• Primary Weapon: Elite striking and knockout power.

• Secondary Strength: Defensive grappling and composure under pressure.

• Game Plan vs Pimblett: Keep the fight standing, punish takedown attempts, land power counters.

The fight becomes a chess match: Can Pimblett drag Topuria into deep grappling waters, or will Topuria’s striking end things before the mat even comes into play?

The Commercial and Media Narrative

Every great UFC rivalry needs more than just skills—it needs a story.

• Pimblett’s narrative: The underdog grappler, humble enough to admit flaws, working tirelessly to evolve.

• Topuria’s narrative: The cold, calculated champion, dominant in his craft, waiting to silence a loud contender.

Together, they create the perfect yin-yang dynamic: charisma vs. composure, grappling vs. striking, fan-favorite vs. feared champion.

The UFC can spin this narrative into documentaries, press tours, and global promotion, ensuring maximum exposure.

Quick Recap – Core Themes

Fan Reactions – Overhype or Real Potential?

The MMA fan community has been divided.

• Supporters believe Pimblett’s humility and improvements prove he is serious about evolving, making him a legitimate threat.

• Skeptics argue that comparing himself to Khamzat Chimaev is premature, given Pimblett has yet to face an elite striker on Topuria’s level.

But one thing is certain: this rivalry has sparked massive online debate, and in UFC, controversy often equals commercial success.

Conclusion – A Clash of Evolution vs. Domination

Paddy Pimblett’s admission that he will draw inspiration from Khamzat Chimaev’s grappling style while sharpening his striking timing is more than just fight talk. It represents his journey of evolution, his willingness to acknowledge weaknesses, and his determination to reach the top.

Against Ilia Topuria, he faces the toughest test of his career. Yet, the contrast between their styles, the authenticity of their rivalry, and the commercial potential of their showdown make this one of the most anticipated fights of the upcoming UFC calendar.

If Pimblett can turn his weakness into a strength and successfully channel Chimaev’s blueprint, the UFC could witness one of the most dramatic underdog stories in its history.

And whether he wins or loses, one fact remains: Paddy Pimblett vs. Ilia Topuria is the kind of fight that defines eras, captivates fans, and cements legacies.