Paddy Pimblett and Justin Gaethje (Image Credits: Imagn)

Paddy Pimblett Backs Potential Justin Gaethje vs Ilia Topuria Bout for One Main Reason

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports | By Sarthak Khanna | Last updated Feb 2, 2026 4:33 AM ET

Paddy Pimblett has never been shy about voicing his opinions, and the outspoken Liverpool native is once again stirring the pot—this time by weighing in on a potential blockbuster clash between Justin Gaethje and Ilia Topuria. While fans are divided on how such a matchup would play out, Pimblett has made it clear that he’s firmly rooting for Gaethje, and his reasoning goes far beyond simple stylistic preference.

Speaking candidly about the hypothetical bout, Pimblett admitted that he hopes Gaethje can overcome Topuria and walk away with undisputed gold. For Pimblett, Gaethje winning wouldn’t just shake up the title picture—it would open the door to unfinished business. The former interim lightweight champion and Pimblett previously shared the Octagon in a fight that left lingering frustrations on the Englishman’s side, and he believes a second meeting would tell a very different story.

“I hope he’ll win an undisputed title of Ilia and hopefully we can run it back. Because there’re a couple of things that pissed me off in that fight,” Paddy stated.

Paddy Pimblett wants Justin Gaethje to beat Ilia Topuria so he could rematch him:

“I hope he’ll win an undisputed title of Ilia and hopefully we can run it back. Because there’re a couple of things that pissed me off in that fight.

I know he’s on the end of his career. If he… pic.twitter.com/NBXrE5DmGX
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) February 1, 2026

Pimblett acknowledged Gaethje’s position in the latter stages of his career, noting that time isn’t exactly on the American’s side. Still, he sees that as all the more reason for Gaethje to make one last title run.

Paddy Pimblett Sees Redemption and Opportunity in a Gaethje Win

If Gaethje were to beat Topuria and then take on another marquee opponent like Max Holloway, Pimblett believes the stars could align for a rematch that fans would eagerly tune in for. According to him, there were “a couple of things” in their first encounter that didn’t sit right, and those unresolved moments continue to fuel his motivation for a rematch.

From Pimblett’s perspective, this isn’t just about settling a personal score. It’s also about timing and opportunity. He understands that Gaethje may have only a limited number of fights left, making every matchup crucial. A Gaethje victory over Topuria would create chaos at the top of the division, potentially fast-tracking Pimblett into the biggest fight of his career.

For Pimblett, the rematch represents a chance to rewrite history and prove he belongs among the elite. Whether Gaethje can get past Topuria remains to be seen, but one thing is certain. Pimblett will be watching closely, hoping the result gives him the shot he’s been waiting for.

This article first appeared on Total Pro Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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