Dana White has addressed circulating rumors about a potential fight between UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria and longtime contender Paddy Pimblett.
Topuria captured the 155-pound title in June after a knockout win over Charles Oliveira at UFC 317, sparking speculation that he could face Pimblett, who immediately confronted him in the Octagon. However, White told TNT Fight Sports that no bout has been finalized.
“We’re always exploring lots of different things,” White said. “Listen, obviously it’s a fun fight, people would like to see that. But I don’t know. As of right now, no, we haven’t made that fight. We’re trying to figure out what’s next for Topuria.”
IT’S GETTING HEATED 😱 #UFC317
Is Ilia Topuria vs Paddy Pimblett next?! pic.twitter.com/sWIEMbquQi
— UFC Europe (@UFCEurope) June 29, 2025
Pimblett’s Next Fight Remains Unclear
Pimblett, currently ranked sixth in the UFC lightweight division, has built a perfect 7-0 record in the promotion. While he could position himself for a title opportunity by defeating higher-ranked opponents, White emphasized that no official matchup has been confirmed.
The UFC CEO also touched on other British fighters, including Lerone Murphy, who could be in line for a shot at featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski. Similar to Pimblett, Murphy’s next opponent has yet to be announced.
“You want me to make, like, 10 fights right here while we’re doing this right here, right now?” White said. “Everything is possible. Everything is possible, but no, we haven’t made any of these fights yet.”
Topuria’s camp has expressed interest in fighting in Spain, possibly at Madrid’s Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, which White called a reasonable idea. He also confirmed that events in fighters’ home countries, including a potential card for bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili in Georgia, make sense.
“Absolutely,” White said. “No-brainers.”
For now, the lightweight champion’s first defense remains open, with the UFC still finalizing plans. Fans will have to wait for official announcements before knowing when or against whom Topuria will defend his title.
