Ilia Topuria opens up on UFC 324 interim clash and sends clear signal to Paddy Pimblett

Just days after Dana White made things official, Topuria has spoken out about the interim title fight set up during his break from competition.

His rivalry with Pimblett goes back some time already. Many fans thought their history would lead to a showdown early in 2026 before the lightweight champ decided to take a break from fighting.

Following a confrontation with Pimblett during the last UFC event in Qatar, it appears ‘El Matador’ is eager to face ‘The Baddy’ in the Octagon.

Consequently, Topuria seems to want Pimblett to secure a victory at UFC 324.

“Paddy, win your next fight. Hands up, chin down,” the Spaniard posted on X.

He delivered a taunting message to Arman Tsarukyan, taking a swipe at the UFC’s widely criticized decision to overlook his claim for a title shot.

“Arman Petuh, this dance is for you (laughing emojis),” Topuria wrote.

Paddy Pimblett reveals what the rest of his 2026 could look like after UFC 324 victory

Pimblett still needs to get past Gaethje before any title talk can become a reality, but he is already making plans for the year ahead.

The Liverpudlian believes he will take care of business against ‘The Highlight’ in Las Vegas and then move on to unify the lightweight titles against Topuria later in the spring or summer.

If Pimblett does come through and silences those who doubt his credentials due to a resume light on top-five opponents, he already has someone in mind for his first title defence.

Pimblett trolled Tsarukyan after the UFC 324 fight announcement and says the Armenian will have to wait until next year, when he expects to be defending the belt, before getting his chance.

In a video shared by the UFC on X, Pimblett stated: “2026 is going to be the biggest year of my life.

“I am coming for that interim title, then I’ll be making it the undisputed title when I come and beat Ilia Topuria up and take the undisputed title.

“And little posh boy [Tsarukyan] – if he manages to fight in that time because he likes sitting out and saying he’s got a sore back – if little posh boy fights in that time and keeps his ranking, I’ll punch his head in as well.”