Henry Cejudo Pushes for Pimblett vs. Topuria Fight
Former UFC double champion Henry Cejudo has set the MMA world ablaze with his latest proposal: a high-stakes lightweight bout between Paddy “The Baddy” Pimblett and Ilia Topuria. With the division heating up, Cejudo believes this fight would serve as a title eliminator, positioning the winner for a future shot at reigning champion Islam Makhachev.
On April 14, 2025, Cejudo took to social media to make his case. “This is the fight to make,” he declared. “Paddy’s got the charisma, Topuria’s got the firepower. The winner deserves a shot at Makhachev.”
Pimblett, fresh off his stunning victory over Michael Chandler at UFC 314 on April 13, 2025, has rapidly climbed the lightweight rankings. His finishing ability and fan-friendly style make him one of the sport’s most marketable figures. Meanwhile, Topuria, a dominant force in both the featherweight and lightweight divisions, remains undefeated in the UFC. His striking precision and ground game have made him a nightmare matchup for anyone in the division.
UFC matchmakers have yet to weigh in on Cejudo’s proposal, but fans and analysts are already debating the potential outcome of the bout. Pimblett’s wild scrambles and relentless pace could challenge Topuria’s composed technical striking. Meanwhile, Topuria’s pressure and knockout power present a serious threat to Pimblett’s defensive gaps.
Makhachev, the lightweight king, has remained quiet on the possibility of facing either contender. With his latest title defense in the books, he awaits the UFC’s decision on his next challenger. If Cejudo’s suggestion gains traction, Pimblett and Topuria could battle for the right to step into the cage against the dominant champion.
With both fighters eager to break into title contention, the pressure is on the UFC to make a move. A Pimblett-Topuria clash would ignite the division and provide fans with the kind of high-energy showdown that defines championship-caliber MMA. For now, all eyes are on Dana White and the UFC brass to see if they will turn Cejudo’s proposal into reality.
