Topuria Told To Vacate His Title

Ilia Topuria’s break from the sport has raised questions over whether he should vacate his UFC Lightweight Title. 

Topuria, who became a two-division champion in June 2025 by knocking out Charles Oliveira at UFC 317, announced a break to manage what he describes as a “malicious extortion attempt” involving false allegations of domestic abuse.

In response, Pimblett is set to fight Justin Gaethje for the interim lightweight title at UFC 324 on January 24, 2026. The winner will be in a position to face Topuria. However, not everyone is satisfied. Pimblett felt there could be another “Tom Aspinall situation,” like how Tom waited so long to face Jon Jones. The fight never happened after Jones retired, with Aspinall then facing Ciryl Gane. 

Pimblett Reacts

On January 4, 2026, Topuria confirmed he was summoned to court regarding his daughter’s travel rights, but he denied reports that he was testifying for “gender violence,” calling the headlines “categorically false.” With Topuria confirmed to be out until at least the spring of 2026, Pimblett has suggested that he should vacate. Paddy, though, still wants to face Ilia. 

““It’s the only fight to make, but at the same time, we need to see what’s happening with him. I’ve said it in interviews before, even though I don’t like the guy, I feel for him. …People keep saying, ‘You’re probably going to end up like Tom when you win it, and get upgraded. Because people are saying Ilia’s not going to be back for at least a year. People are saying it could get messy, and it could be like two years if it gets dragged out.

“If he’s going to sit out that long, I would rather he just vacate and stop holding the division up. But I do want to fight him, so it’s a catch-22. I want to beat Ilia up and show everyone I can beat him, but at the same time, if he’s going to have me waiting like Tom was waiting for Jon, then no. Just vacate and let the division crack on,” Pimblett said