Pimblett Eyes October Return with Gaethje or Topuria in His Sights

Pimblett targeting Topuria or Gaethje fight in October as Liverpool star plans next move

Paddy Pimblett has never been one to play it safe. The charismatic Liverpudlian is riding the crest of a wave after a statement win over Michael Chandler, and now he’s aiming even higher. Pimblett has his eyes locked on a return to the Octagon in October, and he’s targeting nothing less than a top-five showdown—either with Spain’s Ilia Topuria or American fan-favourite Justin Gaethje.

It’s classic Pimblett: bold, brash, and utterly unbothered by reputations. But after silencing doubters with an impressive display last month, the UFC lightweight is now demanding the big names—and in typical Paddy fashion, he’s bringing the hype with him.

Abu Dhabi the Likely Stage for Pimblett’s Return

If everything goes to plan, the 29-year-old will be back in action in Abu Dhabi this October, at what is expected to be UFC’s flagship Middle East event of the year. The date is yet to be confirmed, but Pimblett is already preparing his next steps.

“I’m hoping to fight in Abu Dhabi in October. I think that’s when I’m going to be back in the cage,” he told BBC Sport.

While Pimblett would love nothing more than a grudge match against Topuria—especially if the Spaniard captures lightweight gold in June—it seems more likely that a bout with Justin Gaethje will materialise. Topuria is already booked to face Charles Oliveira at UFC 317 in June, a bout with the vacant lightweight title on the line following Islam Makhachev’s move up to welterweight.

“If Ilia wins, I was half-expecting him to call me out. I’d love to beat him if he gets the belt,” Pimblett said. “I’d love to fight him anyway, but he’s booked, so I think it’s more than likely Justin Gaethje.”

History with Topuria Still Burns

Paddy Pimblett, sobre Topuria: “Es un enano para el peso ligero” –

The potential fight with Topuria isn’t just about titles. There’s unfinished business between the two, stemming from a fiery hotel altercation before UFC London back in 2022. Words were exchanged, tempers flared, and while no punches were thrown that day, the tension has lingered.

Topuria, the former featherweight champion, has since made the move up to lightweight and is now knocking on the door of championship glory. At 28, he’s unbeaten and riding a tidal wave of momentum. For Pimblett, beating Topuria wouldn’t just be a personal victory—it would also be the defining win of his career.

But with Topuria occupied, Pimblett’s focus now shifts to Gaethje—a proven warrior and perhaps the most violent man in the division. Ranked No. 3 in the lightweight standings, Gaethje boasts 20 knockouts in 26 fights and is known for his brutal style and iron chin.

“People actually want to watch Gaethje fight,” said Pimblett. “People know it’ll be an exciting fight—me versus Gaethje. That’s what fans want.”

No Interest in Tsarukyan

Interestingly, there’s one name Pimblett is quick to shut down—Arman Tsarukyan. The Armenian sits higher than Pimblett in the rankings, but the Liverpudlian isn’t impressed.

“No one [cares] about Arman Tsarukyan. He’s just an absolute tool,” he said, bluntly. “It’s me and Gaethje—that’s the fight. One win away and I’ll be fighting for the belt. Yeah, that’s always been the aim. It’s the only aim that we have.”

It’s a typically forthright assessment from Pimblett, who has never minced his words. But it also reflects a growing confidence and sense of direction. This isn’t the fun-loving scouser from a few years back who was happy to entertain and charm fans with post-fight pizza binges. This version of Paddy wants gold—and he knows who stands in his way.

Seven Wins and Counting

Since making his UFC debut in 2021, Pimblett has racked up seven straight wins. While early performances were met with scepticism from some corners—particularly after a narrow decision over Jared Gordon—his recent demolition of Chandler has forced a reappraisal.

Now, Pimblett finds himself in that rare position where popularity and performance are aligning at just the right time. He’s no longer just a hype train—he’s a real contender. And he knows it.

Dreaming of Anfield: Pimblett Wants to Bring UFC to Liverpool

While Abu Dhabi may be next, Pimblett’s long-term dream lies much closer to home. The proud Scouser has repeatedly expressed his desire to headline a UFC card in Liverpool, but so far, the promotion hasn’t returned to the city since 2018.

Part of the issue is the size of the M&S Bank Arena, which holds just 11,000 fans. Pimblett believes there’s a better solution—one that would combine his two great loves: MMA and Liverpool Football Club.

“It needs to be Anfield,” he declared. “That’s the only viable place to do it. And I know Dana [White] doesn’t like doing stadiums—he’s done it in Australia—but Anfield is different.”

A Plea to Dana White: Come to Anfield

The UFC president has often been hesitant about outdoor stadium shows, citing the unpredictable weather and potential for a diminished atmosphere. But Pimblett believes all it would take is one visit to Liverpool’s famous ground to change White’s mind.

“He needs to come to Anfield on a Champions League night or when we play Manchester United or something like that,” Pimblett urged. “Or even the blue shirt [Everton]. You need to come and watch because you’d be like, ‘wow, this is unbelievable.’”

It’s hard to argue with the passion Pimblett brings to the idea. A UFC event at Anfield would be unprecedented, but if anyone can make it happen, it might just be the man known as “The Baddy.”

What’s Next?

For now, it seems Pimblett’s October return is a matter of “when,” not “if.” Whether it’s against Gaethje or a title-chasing Topuria, the Liverpudlian is knocking on the door of the UFC elite.

With charisma, a growing résumé, and a loyal fanbase behind him, Paddy Pimblett is more than just a sideshow attraction. He’s becoming a serious force in the lightweight division—and if he gets his way, his journey to the top might just run through the heart of Anfield.

One more win, and the belt won’t just be a dream. It’ll be a real, tangible target. And knowing Paddy, he’ll make damn sure we’re all watching when he gets there.