Paddy Pimblett has his crosshairs mounted on his subsequent UFC opponent.
The Liverpool man, who in April scored a career-best win over the previous title challenger Michael Chandler, is searching for a top-five opponent as he plots a course to the UFC light-weight title — and says that Justin Gaethje is his most probably subsequent take a look at, however isn’t ruling out a showdown with longtime rival Ilia Topuria.
Former featherweight champion Topuria will search so as to add a second world title to his mantle when he takes on Charles Oliveira to contest the vacant 155-pound crown at UFC 317 late subsequent month, doubtlessly paving the way in which for a Pimblett vs. Topuria bout if the Brazilian submission skilled triumphs in opposition to the Spaniard — although Pimblett isn’t ruling out a title bout if Topuria wins.
However both manner, Pimblett is concentrating on the UFC occasion in Abu Dhabi for the following chapter in his profession.
“I’m hoping to battle in Abu Dhabi in October. I feel that’s once I’m going to be again within the cage,” Pimblett stated to BBC Sport.
“I used to be pondering Ilia would possibly name me out if he wins [against Oliveira]. I’d like to beat him if he will get the belt. I’d like to battle him anyway however he’s booked, so I feel it’s greater than doubtless Justin Gaethje.”
Pimblett was just lately the topic of speak from light-weight contender Arman Tsarukyan — nonetheless, he says that there are larger fights for him within the division.
“Nobody [cares] about Arman Tsarukyan and other people truly wish to watch Gaethje battle,” he stated. “Individuals understand it’ll be an thrilling battle, me versus Gaethje. Tsarukyan, he’s simply an absolute software, after which it’s me and Gaethje. “One win away and I’ll be combating for the belt. Yeah, that’s all the time been the purpose. It’s the one purpose that we’ve got.”
In fact, one other purpose of Pimblett’s has been to battle within the residence of his beloved Liverpool Soccer Membership; and desires to ask UFC boss Dana White to the sector to pattern the environment as a part of his plan to safe his dream.
“It must be Anfield,” Pimblett defined. “That’s the one the one viable place to do it. And I do know Dana doesn’t like doing stadiums, he’s accomplished it in Australia, however Anfield is totally different. He wants to return to Anfield on a Champions League night time or once we play Manchester United or one thing like that, and even the blue shirt [Everton].
“It’s worthwhile to come and watch since you’d be like ‘wow, that is unbelievable’.”
