Ilya Topuria has shared his reaction to the fight that will decide his next opponent in the UFC.
On Saturday night, Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett went head-to-head for the interim lightweight title in the main event of UFC 324. Gaethje, a 37-year-old veteran, secured a unanimous decision win, setting up a highly anticipated unification bout later this year against the undisputed 155-pound champion.
Following the event, Joe Rogan expressed concern over Paddy Pimblett’s condition, calling for scientific research on Pimblett’s jaw after he was hospitalized post-fight.
An hour after the fight, Ilya Topuria took to social media to voice his thoughts on UFC 324. The lightweight champion criticized Pimblett for spoiling what could have been a major grudge match. Referring to Gaethje, Topuria remarked that Justin is “extremely up” and taunted Pimblett, saying, “Little sausage, all you had to do was beat the 38-year-old man.” He added, “You’ve just lost the biggest payday of your life. You could have been wealthy if you had won. Justin, congrats… but get ready because no matter what, you’re in trouble.”
Meanwhile, Arman Tsarukyan did not hold back in his remarks, calling Pimblett “trash” following his first UFC defeat. As the No. 1 lightweight contender, Tsarukyan had a bitter rivalry with Pimblett leading up to UFC 324. On social media, he mocked Pimblett, claiming, “This clown couldn’t beat Gaethje, even with antibiotics.” Tsarukyan argued that Pimblett’s title shot was undeserved, saying it was an unfair promotion boosted by the rankings. He praised Gaethje for his toughness and said he looks forward to facing him himself. In a Paramount+ interview, Tsarukyan harshly criticized both Gaethje and Pimblett, labeling Paddy as not a premier fighter and confident he would dominate Gaethje if given the chance, claiming, “He doesn’t have a chin or good cardio. Paddy got knocked out 15 or 20 times, and Justin didn’t finish him off but could have knocked him out multiple times.”
Fan Take: This fight and the surrounding drama highlight the intense competition brewing in the UFC lightweight division, setting the stage for electrifying matchups ahead. Fans should keep a close eye on how these rivalries unfold, as they promise to reshape the landscape and deliver unforgettable moments in the sport.
