The UFC lightweight division is one of the most competitive in all of mixed martial arts, with stars lining up to get their crack at the reigning champion, Ilia Topuria. The undefeated Spaniard (17-0 MMA, 9-0 UFC) has become a polarizing figure, beloved by his growing fan base while also drawing heated rivalries with several contenders. As speculation grows over who will face him next, former interim lightweight champion Dustin Poirier has voiced his opinion — and he doesn’t believe that Paddy Pimblett should be next in line.

Poirier, who recently retired following a tough loss to Max Holloway at UFC 318 in July, is transitioning into his new role as a fight analyst. Speaking on the “Bohnfire” podcast with MMA Junkie’s Mike Bohn, Poirier broke down the state of the lightweight division and gave his take on who deserves the next title shot at Topuria. While Pimblett has been heavily rumored as a potential challenger, Poirier made it clear that he sees the matchup as premature.

Poirier’s Take on Topuria’s Next Opponent

According to Poirier, the fight that makes the most sense is Topuria vs. Justin Gaethje. “Gaethje (should get the title shot). He’s such a precise striker and he’s so good. Gaethje puts himself in harm’s way. It would be a horrible matchup for Gaethje if he lunges in and gets sniped by one of those clean shots. But also it could be a tough fight for Topuria,” Poirier explained.

The matchup is appealing because Gaethje remains one of the most dangerous and fan-friendly fighters in the division. Known for his all-action style, the “Highlight” has delivered some of the most memorable bouts in recent UFC history. However, Gaethje has also hinted at retirement if he doesn’t get the next opportunity, making the timing especially critical.

Another strong candidate in Poirier’s eyes is Arman Tsarukyan, who has been vocal about wanting to fight Topuria. Tsarukyan was originally booked to face Topuria for the lightweight belt at UFC 311 in January, but he withdrew at the last moment due to weight-cut complications. The unfinished business between the two fighters provides a natural storyline, though Tsarukyan may need one more big win to regain his momentum.

Why Not Pimblett?

While Pimblett (23-3 MMA, 7-0 UFC) has been building hype and remains undefeated in the UFC, Poirier believes his résumé simply doesn’t stack up to the likes of Gaethje or Tsarukyan. “Respect to Paddy and what he’s done — I don’t think a win over Michael Chandler, on the skid Chandler is on and the way his fights have been going, deserves a title shot right away,” Poirier said.

Poirier acknowledged that Pimblett is a popular figure who generates headlines and fan excitement, but he emphasized that excitement alone shouldn’t be enough to secure a title opportunity. In Poirier’s eyes, Pimblett needs to defeat at least one legitimate top-five opponent before being considered for a title fight against someone as proven as Topuria.

“I know he’s exciting and people are talking about him, but I would like to see him fight one more top-five guy. One more tough, tough test. And then we can talk title fights for him. I think it’s a little bit rushed for Paddy, if we’re talking about him and Ilia,” Poirier added.

A Potential Test: Max Holloway

If Pimblett is not ready for Topuria, then who should he fight next? Poirier suggested an intriguing option — Max Holloway, the reigning BMF champion. Holloway is coming off a high-profile victory over Poirier himself at UFC 318, and he has no immediate fight booked.

“Put Max in there with Pimblett,” Poirier said. “That’s a fun fight to find out what level Paddy is really at. But there’s a bunch of fun fights for Max, man. A bunch of fun fights. I would love to see Max vs. (Dan) Hooker as well. I’m a fan of both guys and I know that would be a fun fight for everybody.”

A Pimblett vs. Holloway clash would be a massive test for the English star. Holloway’s elite striking, pace, and durability would answer many of the lingering questions about whether Pimblett is ready to face the very best in the division. Should Pimblett pull off a win over Holloway, his case for a title shot would be undeniable.

UFC’s Dilemma: Sport vs. Spectacle

The UFC has often balanced competitive merit with marketability when booking fights. Pimblett is one of the organization’s biggest rising stars, particularly in Europe, and a title fight against Topuria would generate major buzz. However, granting him a title shot without a top-five victory would spark criticism from fans and fighters alike.

On the other hand, matchups with Gaethje or Tsarukyan fit the traditional merit-based pathway but may not have the same mainstream appeal. This leaves the UFC with a difficult choice: prioritize the storyline and box-office draw of Topuria vs. Pimblett, or stay true to the competitive ladder by giving the opportunity to Gaethje or Tsarukyan.

What Comes Next

Topuria may not return to action until 2026, as his schedule is tied to the UFC’s new broadcast deal with Paramount. If he headlines the first numbered event under the new deal, the UFC will want to ensure his opponent is both credible and marketable.

With five realistic contenders — Gaethje, Tsarukyan, Pimblett, Holloway, and even Poirier if he ever considers returning — the lightweight title picture remains as crowded and unpredictable as ever. Poirier’s analysis reflects what many purists believe: that Pimblett needs one more big win before stepping into the octagon with the champion.

Conclusion

Dustin Poirier’s stance on Paddy Pimblett’s title hopes underscores the divide between hype and merit in the UFC. While Pimblett has captured fans’ attention with his charisma and undefeated record, his lack of a signature win leaves questions about whether he’s ready for a champion as dangerous as Ilia Topuria.

For Poirier, the more deserving candidates right now are Justin Gaethje and Arman Tsarukyan, with a potential Pimblett vs. Holloway fight serving as the ultimate test to prove if “The Baddy” truly belongs in the title conversation.

Until the UFC makes its decision, one thing is certain: the lightweight division remains one of the most fascinating battlegrounds in combat sports, and the debate over who deserves Topuria next is only heating up.