Ilia Topuria has broken his silence about the first defeat of his professional MMA career and identified his preferred comeback opponent. The former two-division UFC champion wants to face longtime rival Paddy Pimblett when he returns in April 2027. The Ilia Topuria vs Paddy Pimblett matchup has attracted renewed attention following Topuria’s emotional comments about losing to Justin Gaethje. The Georgian-Spanish fighter also suggested that retirement could become an option after his next appearance.
Ilia Topuria vs Paddy Pimblett Fight Targeted for April 2027
Ilia Topuria (17-1) has expressed interest in returning against Paddy Pimblett following his devastating defeat against Justin Gaethje. The 29-year-old discussed his future in a preview of an interview with Spanish outlet ABC Diario. His comments were released on Thursday, November 5, 2026.
Topuria confirmed that he is considering a return from April 2027 onward. He also identified Pimblett as the opponent he would prefer to face. However, the UFC has not officially announced their matchup or confirmed a specific date.
The former champion made his feelings about Pimblett clear while discussing his comeback plans. He again mocked the Liverpool fighter, using the nickname that has featured throughout their rivalry. His comments suggest that their longstanding disagreement remains unresolved.
“I’ll eat him like a sausage,” Topuria said while discussing a potential fight against Pimblett.
The statement adds another chapter to a rivalry that began several years ago. Both fighters have repeatedly exchanged insults and challenged each other publicly. However, their previous disagreements have never resulted in an official UFC matchup.
Ilia Topuria Opens Up About First Career Defeat Against Justin Gaethje
Topuria suffered his first professional MMA defeat against Justin Gaethje at the UFC White House event in June 2026. The matchup served as a lightweight championship contest, with Topuria entering as the defending champion. However, Gaethje produced a major upset and captured the title.
The American delivered a damaging performance across four rounds before Topuria’s corner stopped the contest. The decision prevented the former champion from continuing into the fifth round. It also ended Topuria’s undefeated professional record.
Topuria acknowledged that the result was the most difficult moment of his fighting career. He explained that the experience forced him to confront questions he had never previously faced. However, he has now accepted the defeat rather than continuing to search for excuses.
The former champion described the loss as the worst day of his career. He also explained that he spent several months reflecting on his performance. Ultimately, he recognized that losing remains a possible outcome for every professional fighter.
Topuria Admits He Spent Months Questioning the Defeat
Topuria explained that he spent approximately five or six months considering what went wrong against Gaethje. His previous success had allowed him to build considerable confidence throughout his professional career. However, the defeat forced him to reassess his experiences.
The former featherweight and lightweight champion had previously defeated several elite opponents without suffering a professional loss. His victories against Alexander Volkanovski, Max Holloway, and Charles Oliveira helped establish his reputation. Gaethje became the first fighter to interrupt that success.
Topuria’s reflections suggest that he is now approaching the defeat differently. Instead of denying the outcome, he has acknowledged that his opponent performed better. He also believes the experience could help him become a more complete competitor.
The loss previously generated discussion about a possible Ilia Topuria vs Justin Gaethje rematch. However, Gaethje has shown little interest in immediately repeating the contest. That situation could make another opponent more realistic for Topuria’s return.
What Happened During Ilia Topuria vs Justin Gaethje at UFC White House?
Topuria entered the historic UFC White House event with an undefeated professional record and considerable momentum. The former featherweight champion had already captured lightweight gold and appeared positioned for another major challenge. However, Gaethje delivered a performance that changed those plans.
The opening rounds featured aggressive striking exchanges between two dangerous finishers. Topuria initially found success with his boxing and threatened to hurt the American. However, Gaethje survived those exchanges and gradually increased his offensive pressure.
Gaethje began landing more damaging strikes as the contest progressed. His combinations repeatedly troubled Topuria, who struggled to maintain his earlier offensive rhythm. The champion also suffered considerable facial damage during the fight.
By the conclusion of the fourth round, Topuria had absorbed enough punishment for his corner to intervene. His team decided not to allow him to continue into the final round. Gaethje consequently secured the championship through a corner stoppage.
Topuria’s Injuries Delayed His UFC Comeback
Topuria suffered significant facial injuries during his defeat against Gaethje. Subsequent reports indicated that he sustained fractures around both orbital bones. Those injuries required recovery before he could consider returning to full-contact training.
The former champion eventually completed medical assessments and announced that he had received clearance to resume preparation. He also shared updates showing his return to the gym. However, the UFC did not immediately arrange another contest.
His recovery period contributed to several months away from competition. The extended absence also allowed other lightweight contenders to pursue their own opportunities. Topuria now hopes to return with improved preparation and renewed confidence.
Ilia Topuria Hints at Possible UFC Retirement After Next Fight
One of Topuria’s most surprising comments involved the possibility of retiring after his next UFC appearance. The former champion suggested that he has already accomplished his major professional goals. His achievements include capturing championships in two weight divisions.
“Maybe I’ll even retire,” Topuria said while discussing his future.
However, the comment does not represent a formal retirement announcement. Topuria remains focused on returning to competition and has already identified his preferred opponent. His immediate plans therefore involve preparing for another fight rather than leaving the sport.
The suggestion nevertheless raises questions about how long he intends to remain active. At 29, Topuria is considerably younger than many former champions considering retirement. However, his success across two divisions gives him a different perspective on his remaining ambitions.
His next performance could influence that decision. A strong comeback might encourage him to pursue another championship opportunity. Alternatively, he could decide to end his career after competing against a major rival.
Paddy Pimblett Previously Questioned Topuria’s Ability to Recover
Paddy Pimblett has already expressed doubts about Topuria’s ability to regain his previous form. The Liverpool lightweight discussed his rival’s defeat during an October interview with All Out Fighting. He suggested that suffering a first professional loss could affect Topuria’s confidence.
Pimblett acknowledged that Topuria remains a talented fighter. However, he argued that the former champion had built much of his reputation around remaining undefeated. He believes Gaethje’s victory could change how Topuria approaches future contests.
The British fighter also pointed toward his own experiences with defeat. Pimblett suffered losses earlier in his professional career before rebuilding momentum. He believes those setbacks helped him develop as a competitor.
Their comments have continued an increasingly personal rivalry. The two fighters have previously disagreed about rankings, opponent quality, and their respective championship ambitions. Their ongoing exchanges have made a potential meeting particularly interesting.
Why Ilia Topuria and Paddy Pimblett Have a Longstanding Rivalry
Topuria and Pimblett have exchanged public insults for several years. Their disagreement intensified during UFC London fight week in March 2022. The two were involved in a confrontation at the fighter hotel before the event.
Their relationship has remained tense despite competing in different weight divisions earlier in their careers. Topuria eventually moved from featherweight to lightweight, making a potential matchup more realistic. Both fighters have since competed against established contenders at 155 pounds.
The rivalry also gained attention when fans began discussing a possible championship matchup. However, defeats against Justin Gaethje interrupted both fighters’ opportunities to meet with a title at stake. Their current situations could allow the UFC to arrange a non-title contest.
Pimblett has also maintained rivalries with other prominent lightweights, including Arman Tsarukyan. His ongoing disagreement with Tsarukyan illustrates the competition for important matchups within the division. However, Topuria remains one of the opponents he has discussed most frequently.
Dana White Confirms UFC Is Planning Topuria’s 2027 Return
UFC CEO Dana White recently confirmed that the promotion is working toward Topuria’s return in early 2027. His comments came before the former champion publicly identified April as a possible comeback window. However, White did not reveal a confirmed opponent.
The UFC CEO previously expressed interest in both a Gaethje rematch and a potential matchup with Pimblett. Each contest offers a different storyline for the former champion. However, the promotion must consider the lightweight title picture before making a final decision.
Topuria’s willingness to face Pimblett could simplify part of the matchmaking process. Both fighters have repeatedly expressed interest in settling their rivalry inside the Octagon. However, negotiations, scheduling, and other divisional commitments remain important factors.
The earlier Ilia Topuria next fight update highlighted White’s interest in arranging a comeback. The latest comments now provide a clearer indication of Topuria’s preferred timeline. Nevertheless, April remains a target rather than an officially confirmed fight date.
Could Ilia Topuria vs Paddy Pimblett Headline a UFC Event?
A matchup between Topuria and Pimblett would bring together two recognizable lightweight contenders with an established rivalry. Both have developed international followings through their performances and public personalities. Their previous confrontations could also create significant promotional interest.
Topuria enters the discussion as a former two-division champion with victories against several accomplished opponents. Pimblett brings experience from major UFC appearances and a reputation for aggressive fighting. Their different strengths could produce an interesting contest.
Topuria relies heavily on precise boxing, powerful combinations, and defensive grappling. Pimblett prefers aggressive exchanges and has demonstrated strong submission abilities. Their contrasting approaches could influence how both prepare for a potential meeting.
However, no event has been officially selected for their contest. A main event or co-main event placement would depend on the UFC’s scheduling decisions. The promotion must first confirm whether both fighters will accept the proposed matchup.
What Does Topuria’s Return Mean for the UFC Lightweight Division?
Topuria’s comeback could influence several important matchmaking decisions within the lightweight division. Justin Gaethje currently holds the championship after defeating him in June. Other leading contenders are also pursuing opportunities against the American.
Arman Tsarukyan remains among the fighters seeking a title opportunity. Charles Oliveira and Max Holloway also remain recognizable names within the division. Their future matchups could affect the available options for Topuria.
A fight against Pimblett would allow Topuria to rebuild momentum without immediately challenging for the championship. However, a victory could strengthen his argument for another major opportunity. The result would also influence Pimblett’s position among the division’s leading contenders.
Topuria previously appeared interested in pursuing championship success at welterweight. His defeat against Gaethje interrupted the possibility of immediately challenging Islam Makhachev for a third divisional title. For now, his focus appears to have returned to lightweight competition.
Ilia Topuria vs Paddy Pimblett: What Has Been Confirmed?
The latest developments provide a clearer understanding of Topuria’s preferred comeback plans. However, several important details remain unresolved. His public comments should not be confused with an official UFC fight announcement.
| Detail | Current status |
| Potential fight | Ilia Topuria vs Paddy Pimblett |
| Weight class | Lightweight |
| Target return | April 2027 or later |
| Fight officially announced | No |
| Venue | Not confirmed |
| Topuria’s latest result | Loss to Justin Gaethje |
| UFC’s position | Working toward early 2027 return |
| Retirement possibility | Mentioned by Topuria, not confirmed |
Topuria has identified a preferred opponent and possible timeline for his return. However, the UFC has not finalized the matchup. Further announcements will determine whether the longtime rivals finally meet.
Final Thoughts
Ilia Topuria has opened up about his difficult defeat against Justin Gaethje while outlining plans for another UFC appearance. The former two-division champion acknowledged the first loss of his professional career and reflected on its impact. He now hopes to return from April 2027 onward.
Paddy Pimblett has emerged as Topuria’s preferred opponent following years of public disagreements. Their rivalry has already produced several memorable exchanges outside the Octagon. However, the UFC has not officially booked their matchup.
Topuria’s suggestion that he could retire after another fight adds uncertainty to his long-term future. Nevertheless, his immediate focus remains returning stronger after his first professional defeat. A fight against Pimblett could become an important chapter in his remaining UFC career.
FAQs About Ilia Topuria vs Paddy Pimblett
1. Is Ilia Topuria fighting Paddy Pimblett in April 2027?
Ilia Topuria has called for a fight against Paddy Pimblett and identified April 2027 as a possible return window. However, the UFC has not officially announced the matchup.
2. What did Ilia Topuria say about his loss to Justin Gaethje?
Topuria described the defeat as the most difficult experience of his professional fighting career. He acknowledged the result and explained that he spent several months reflecting on his performance.
3. Did Ilia Topuria announce his UFC retirement?
No. Topuria suggested that retirement could become a possibility after his next fight. However, he has not officially retired and continues preparing for a comeback.
4. Who defeated Ilia Topuria for the UFC lightweight championship?
Justin Gaethje defeated Topuria through a fourth-round corner stoppage at the UFC White House event in June 2026. The defeat ended Topuria’s undefeated professional MMA record.
5. Why do Ilia Topuria and Paddy Pimblett dislike each other?
The two fighters have maintained a rivalry since their confrontation during UFC London fight week in March 2022. They have repeatedly exchanged insults and challenges through interviews and social media.
