Paddy Pimblett Unexpectedly “U-Turns” – Dumps Topuria, Calls Gaethje a Stepping Stone

The UFC lightweight division remains one of the most competitive battlegrounds in MMA, and now it’s Paddy Pimblett’s turn to make his move. Amid public spats, lucrative offers, and shifting rankings, the British star known as “The Baddy” is showing both ambition and strategy as he targets a high-profile showdown—not with rising contender Arman Tsarukyan, but with veteran slugger Justin Gaethje.

The Lightweight Chase: Top Names, Big Risks

While Arman Tsarukyan continues to chase champion Ilia Topuria, using financial clout and online buzz, and Justin Gaethje publicly criticizes the UFC’s matchmaking politics, Paddy Pimblett, currently ranked No. 8, appears to be charting a more measured course.

The 29-year-old Liverpudlian was linked to a potential bout with Ilia Topuria at UFC 317, the same card where Topuria claimed the featherweight title. But even Pimblett acknowledges that such talk may be premature—more for headlines than legitimacy.

Instead, Pimblett is focused on a realistic opponent—one that allows him to climb the rankings and solidify his status. That opponent, he insists, is not Tsarukyan.

“Nobody Cares About Arman” – Pimblett Dismisses Rival

In a no-holds-barred statement, Pimblett made his stance crystal clear.

“I’ll fight anyone. I don’t care. Arman’s good, but nobody cares about him. Everyone looks at him and thinks, ‘Yeah, you blew your shot when you had the chance to fight Islam. You talk big but never deliver.’”

Pimblett pulled no punches in questioning Tsarukyan’s star power. Despite Tsarukyan’s growing credibility in the cage, Pimblett believes charisma and resume still matter, especially in the fight business. And that’s why he has a different name in mind.

Paddy Pimblett Calls Out a Legend

“Everyone knows Justin Gaethje is a tough fighter. If you’re fighting Gaethje, it’s a real war. He’s a legend. Arman isn’t. That’s why I want to fight another legend—Justin Gaethje.”

With that statement, Paddy Pimblett vs. Justin Gaethje has suddenly become one of the most intriguing potential matchups in the lightweight division.

It’s a logical yet daring move for “The Baddy.” Gaethje is known for his knockout power, brutal pace, and fan-favorite style. But Pimblett sees opportunity, not fear. For him, Gaethje is not just a big name—he’s a winnable fight under the right circumstances.

Tsarukyan Fallout: A Rivalry Fading?

Pimblett and Tsarukyan have clashed on social media in the past, fueled largely by Tsarukyan’s withdrawal from UFC 311, a move that earned backlash from UFC president Dana White and fans alike. That moment significantly tarnished Tsarukyan’s image, even though he was later seen as a backup fighter at UFC 317, which somewhat salvaged his credibility.

Still, Pimblett doesn’t seem interested in rekindling the rivalry. With Tsarukyan’s momentum stalling and his public profile still lacking, Pimblett sees more upside in taking on someone like Gaethje.

Why Gaethje Makes Sense for Pimblett

Despite holding a lower current trajectory, Justin Gaethje is a marquee name. A former interim champion and multiple-time title challenger, Gaethje is known for his exciting, fan-friendly style. But he’s also been vulnerable—particularly against fighters who can exploit his weaknesses on the ground.

That’s where Pimblett believes he has the edge.

“Everyone knows Scousers don’t get knocked out.”

The bold declaration is vintage Pimblett, who has long embraced his identity as a proud Scouser—a native of Liverpool—and made it a centerpiece of his fighting persona. But it’s not just about toughness.

Grappling Advantage: Pimblett’s Secret Weapon

While Gaethje’s striking is among the most dangerous in the UFC, his two most high-profile losses came via submission—to Khabib Nurmagomedov and Charles Oliveira—both elite grapplers. Paddy Pimblett’s jiu-jitsu game is underrated by casual fans but has proven to be his most consistent asset.

If Pimblett can weather Gaethje’s early storm, he may find a submission opening, just as others have before. A win over someone of Gaethje’s caliber could dramatically accelerate Pimblett’s path toward title contention.

From Gaethje to Topuria?

If Paddy Pimblett gets past Gaethje, the door swings wide open for a clash with Ilia Topuria, the reigning featherweight champion who has hinted at a possible lightweight run.

Pimblett certainly thinks so.

“Jon Jones is out right now. The biggest fight UFC could put on would be me vs. Ilia. UFC won’t risk Jon Jones against Tom Aspinall. So don’t be surprised if I’m holding the belt within 6 to 12 months.”

It’s a bold prediction, and one some may call delusional. But Pimblett has never lacked self-belief. And in today’s UFC, where storylines, characters, and charisma matter almost as much as rankings, he may not be wrong.

Conclusion: Strategy Over Hype

In bypassing the Arman Tsarukyan callout, Paddy Pimblett is making a calculated choice. He’s not chasing noise—he’s chasing opportunity. With Justin Gaethje, he sees a fight that offers both legacy and leverage. It’s a test of toughness, skill, and star power all in one.

Whether the UFC books it or not remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: Pimblett is playing the long game, and he’s playing it smart.