Ilia Topuria and Paddy Pimblett Clash Ahead of UFC Qatar

DOHA, Qatar — A tense encounter unfolded between UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria and rival Paddy Pimblett outside their hotel in Qatar this week. Both fighters are present in Doha to corner their teammates at UFC Qatar on Saturday.

The incident occurred when Pimblett, preparing to support his friend Luke Riley in his UFC debut, greeted Topuria from across the courtyard. “What’s happening, you all right?” Pimblett shouted while giving a thumbs up. Topuria, however, did not respond positively and called Pimblett a derogatory term.

Pimblett quickly retorted, saying, “Come on chorizo, calm down,” as tensions rose. Security personnel were alerted to the situation and swiftly intervened, with three guards blocking Pimblett from approaching Topuria, ensuring they remained about 20 feet apart.

This latest confrontation adds to the ongoing rivalry between the two fighters, which began during UFC London fight week in 2022 when Pimblett threw a hand sanitizer bottle at Topuria’s head. Tensions flared again at a UFC 282 press conference, necessitating further separation by security.

Topuria is in Qatar to corner his brother, Aleksandre Topuria, who is set to compete against Bekzat Almakhan. Meanwhile, Pimblett is supporting two teammates: Luke Riley, who faces Bogdan Grad, and Shaqueme Rock in his fight against Nurullo Aliev. Pimblett is vocal about wanting a title shot against Topuria, despite increased competition within the division.

Topuria, holding an undefeated record of 17-0, successfully claimed the vacant lightweight title in June. He has won all nine of his UFC fights, with his latest victory at UFC 317. Pimblett, with a current UFC record of 7-0, has emerged in the lightweight division, raising speculation about a future clash with Topuria.

As UFC Qatar approaches, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation for the potential showdowns ahead, particularly the main event fight featuring Arman Tsarukyan against Dan Hooker. The event will stream live on ESPN+.