Imagine a UFC fighter on the brink of glory, not just eyeing a belt, but potentially sparking an epic crossover showdown that could redefine the lightweight division—sounds thrilling, right? Well, that's exactly where Paddy Pimblett finds himself, pondering how Ilia Topuria's unexpected break might catapult him into a jaw-dropping super-fight following his UFC 324 triumph. Let's dive into the details and unpack why this scenario has fans buzzing.
Paddy Pimblett believes one reigning UFC champion might seize the opportunity in the evolving lightweight scene. Known as 'The Baddy,' Pimblett is just weeks away from his maiden title challenge in the UFC, set against Justin Gaethje for a brand-new interim lightweight championship. With champion Ilia Topuria stepping away for personal reasons—much like taking a breather to recharge—Pimblett and Gaethje will steal the show at UFC 324 on January 24, kicking off the promotion's new chapter with Paramount.
It's still unclear if 'El Matador' will come back to confront the victor, but Pimblett speculates Topuria could relinquish the title, effectively turning their bout at T-Mobile Arena into a battle for the undisputed crown. If that plays out, Pimblett envisions a high-profile talent from another weight class tossing their hat into the ring for the ensuing title opportunity...
- LATEST NEWS: Joe Rogan highlights a key attribute that sets UFC GOAT Jon Jones apart from the pack (https://bloodyelbow.com/2026/01/04/joe-rogan-says-this-big-skill-separates-ufc-goat-jon-jones-from-other-fighters/)
Does Paddy Pimblett's UFC track record justify a championship bout? For beginners wondering about his journey, here's a breakdown of his victories, showing his versatility across finishes like knockouts, submissions, and decisions—each win building his case as a rising star.
Opponent | Method of Victory
Michael Chandler | TKO
King Green | Submission
Tony Ferguson | Decision
Jared Gordon | Decision
Jordan Leavitt | Submission
Kazula Vargas | Submission
Luigi Vendramini | KO
👇 Jump into the conversation; drop your thoughts below and let's debate!
But here's where it gets controversial: Paddy Pimblett is optimistic that Alexander Volkanovski might make a comeback to lightweight ranks. Alexander Volkanovski's stunning knockout defeat by Islam Makhachev back in October 2023 was his second stumble in pursuing double-champ status, leading many to doubt his future shots. Yet, Pimblett sees a path where 'Alexander the Great' could aim for one in 2026.
Chatting with UFC heavyweight king Tom Aspinall on the latter's YouTube channel, 'The Baddy' imagined that clinching the undisputed 155-pound throne—assuming he bests Gaethje and Topuria vacates—could lure Volkanovski back, especially if the featherweight champ overcomes Diego Lopes at UFC 325. 'I reckon if I pull off the win and he does too, elevating me to undisputed champ, it wouldn't shock me if he sees this as the ideal moment to claim the lightweight belt,' Pimblett remarked.
'I genuinely admire Volk and wouldn't mind skipping a scrap with him. Still, he might view it as his prime shot at lightweight glory, taking on me,' he continued. This idea isn't just wild speculation; it adds a layer of excitement to Pimblett's potential rise, illustrating how one fighter's success can ripple across divisions.
- LATEST NEWS: A former foe of Islam Makhachev insists this mega-fight with the champion is essential for the UFC (https://bloodyelbow.com/2026/01/04/ufc-is-told-this-islam-makhachev-super-fight-needs-to-happen-by-the-champions-former-rival/)
And this is the part most people miss: Alexander Volkanovski himself has hinted at his strategy to secure another crack at the lightweight title. Following the announcement of his rematch with Lopes at this year's second numbered UFC event, Volkanovski laid out his roadmap during a chat with 10 News.
'Championship demands accountability, and I handle it with care,' he explained. 'I've got fighters in my own class I don't want to stall, so I'll handle my business. After that, who knows? Perhaps after my plans in Sydney on February 1, I could pivot and notch another win over a perfect undefeated opponent... That might justify pushing for a champ-vs-champ clash.'
This potential crossover isn't without debate—some fans argue it dilutes divisions, while others see it as fresh, must-watch drama. What do you think? Should Volkanovski dive back into lightweight if Pimblett ascends? Is Pimblett ready for such a high-stakes test, or does his record still need more polish? Share your take in the comments—do you agree this could be a game-changer, or is it just wishful thinking? We'd love to hear your side!
Join Our Newsletter
Get a weekly roundup of top Bloody Elbow stories straight to your inbox
