Pimblett Prioritizes Gaethje Rematch Over Topuria Feud Despite Injury Delays

Key points

• Pimblett stated he would choose a rematch with Justin Gaethje over a fight with Ilia Topuria, as winning the undisputed title is his primary goal.
• Pimblett plans to use a grappling-focused strategy in a potential Gaethje rematch, aiming to shoot in and choke him out within the first 10 seconds, contrasting with his striking-heavy approach in their first meeting.
• Pimblett's return timeline remains uncertain due to a left hand injury requiring stem cell injections, with training expected to resume after the Christmas period.
• Pimblett's last five fights include a unanimous decision loss to Gaethje at UFC 324 in January and a first-round submission victory over Benoit Saint-Denis at UFC 329 in July.
• Topuria's return is expected by February 2027, with his team pushing for a bout against Pimblett as a potential stepping stone.

Background

Pimblett and Topuria have a longstanding rivalry, with Pimblett expressing hatred for Topuria but prioritizing the title. Topuria's team is pushing for a bout against Pimblett as a potential stepping stone, with Topuria's return expected by February 2027.

How outlets are covering it

Sherdog emphasizes Pimblett's grappling-focused strategy for a potential Gaethje rematch, while Bloody Elbow highlights the injury delay and uncertain return timeline. MMA Sucka focuses on Pimblett's prioritization of the title over personal rivalry, noting his 24-4 professional record and 8-1 UFC mark. All sources agree on Pimblett's preference for a Gaethje rematch over a Topuria bout, but differ in emphasis on strategy, injury, and rivalry.

Why it matters

Pimblett's prioritization of the title over personal rivalry highlights the importance of undisputed status in the UFC lightweight division. His grappling-focused strategy for a potential Gaethje rematch could shift the dynamics of the division, while his injury delay may impact the timing of a potential bout. Topuria's return by February 2027 and his team's push for a bout against Pimblett could also impact the division's landscape.

What to watch

Pimblett's return timeline remains uncertain due to a left hand injury requiring stem cell injections, with training expected to resume after the Christmas period. Topuria's return is expected by February 2027, with his team pushing for a bout against Pimblett as a potential stepping stone. A potential Gaethje rematch or Topuria bout could be announced in the coming months.