Paddy Pimblett had a front-row seat to Islam Makhachev’s latest statement victory, and the British lightweight was more than happy to see the UFC welterweight champion competing outside his division.
Makhachev successfully defended his welterweight title against Ian Machado Garry at UFC 330, controlling large portions of the fight with his wrestling and grappling before securing a unanimous decision victory. The win extended his UFC winning streak to 17 fights and further strengthened his claim as the best pound-for-pound fighter in the sport.
Pimblett was in attendance for the event and said this about Makhachev after watching the champion handle Garry.
“It’s nice he’s not in my division anymore. He’s the best in the world.”
Paddy Pimblett Has No Interest In Facing Islam Makhachev
Islam Makhachev’s move to welterweight has removed one of the biggest potential threats from Paddy Pimblett’s path at 155 pounds.
The Russian star previously ruled the lightweight division, defending the UFC lightweight championship 4 times before moving up in weight. He is now the welterweight champion and has already established himself as one of the division’s elite fighters.
The Liverpudlian, on the other hand, returned to winning ways with a dominant submission victory over Benoit Saint Denis. Pimblett finished the Frenchman in just 52 seconds at UFC 329, rebuilding his momentum after suffering a unanimous decision loss to Justin Gaethje in their interim lightweight title fight.
Paddy Pimblett Could Finally Settle Rivalry With Ilia Topuria
‘The Baddy’ is now expected to turn his attention toward his longtime rival, Ilia Topuria.
The pair have developed one of the most talked-about rivalries in the UFC, with a potential fight between them repeatedly discussed as one of the biggest matchups the lightweight division can offer.
Topuria is currently recovering from his brutal loss to Justin Gaethje, who defeated him to become the undisputed UFC lightweight champion. Topuria suffered significant facial injuries during the fight and is expected to take time away from competition before making his return. A December comeback has been suggested, although an early 2027 return could also be possible.
If Topuria is ready to return toward the end of the year, a showdown with Pimblett could finally become a reality.
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