Paddy Pimblett believes Ilia Topuria will struggle to recover from his first professional defeat and has backed himself to beat the former UFC lightweight champion should the pair meet inside the Octagon.

Topuria suffered his first career loss against Justin Gaethje at UFC Freedom 250 in June, losing his lightweight title after his corner stopped the contest following the fourth round. Pimblett, who was also beaten by Gaethje earlier this year, believes the setback could have a lasting impact on his rival.

Speaking in an interview with All Out Fighting, as noted by Middleeasy, Pimblett questioned how Topuria would respond to losing his unbeaten record, having previously experienced defeats of his own earlier in his career. The Liverpool fighter also pointed to his height and reach advantages as factors he believes would favour him in a potential meeting.

Pimblett expressed frustration that Gaethje had beaten Topuria before he had the opportunity and predicted that he could force the Georgian-Spanish fighter to return to featherweight. Pimblett stands three inches taller than Topuria and holds a four-inch reach advantage.

A meeting between the two remains a possibility, although no bout has been announced. Pimblett, who returned to winning ways with a first-round submission of Benoit Saint Denis at UFC 329 in July, has suggested March or April as possible dates for his next appearance if he does not compete before the end of 2026.

Topuria remains the UFC’s top-ranked lightweight contender following his defeat to Gaethje, while Pimblett occupies fifth place in the rankings. The pair have been linked with a potential coaching rivalry on The Ultimate Fighter, although the UFC has yet to confirm any plans for the matchup.

View the interview above to see more.