The lightweight division has never been short on drama, but the debate surrounding Ilia Topuria’s first title defense has reached new levels of intensity. After knocking out Charles Oliveira at UFC 317 to claim two-division glory, the newly crowned lightweight king has become the center of a heated conversation. Who should be the first challenger to test him—Paddy Pimblett, Arman Tsarukyan, or Justin Gaethje?

In the eyes of many fans and fighters, Justin Gaethje deserves the nod, and UFC veteran Michael Chiesa has added his voice to the growing chorus pushing UFC president Dana White to make it happen.

The Case for Justin Gaethje

Gaethje has long been considered one of the most entertaining fighters in MMA history. Known as “The Highlight,” he has given fans unforgettable wars against the likes of Tony Ferguson, Dustin Poirier, Michael Chandler, and Khabib Nurmagomedov. His reckless yet calculated style has made him a fan favorite, and his fights are often labeled instant classics.

But Gaethje’s career is reaching its twilight. The 35-year-old has hinted at retirement on multiple occasions, and following his UFC 300 knockout loss to Max Holloway in 2024, many assumed his championship window had closed. Yet Gaethje remains adamant that he has one more run left in him.

Chiesa, speaking on The Bohnfire Podcast, emphasized that sentiment:
“Give Justin Gaethje the title fight. Because we only have him for a little while longer. He earned it in blood, he earned it through his efforts, through all he has given us and left us. Just give him the fight.”

Chiesa’s words resonate with many in the MMA community who believe Gaethje has sacrificed too much to be overlooked.

Pimblett, Tsarukyan, or Gaethje?

The title picture is crowded, and that’s what makes this debate so compelling.

• Paddy Pimblett: The Liverpool star has quickly become one of the UFC’s most marketable fighters. His fiery face-off with Topuria teased what could be one of the promotion’s biggest grudge matches. Many, including Michael Bisping, have suggested Pimblett is the logical challenger.

• Arman Tsarukyan: On paper, Tsarukyan may be the most deserving contender. With a string of impressive wins and support from reigning lightweight champion Islam Makhachev, he represents the toughest sporting challenge for Topuria.

• Justin Gaethje: While his résumé is filled with losses in big moments, Gaethje’s career contributions and fan appeal are undeniable. Chiesa argues that time is running out, and if the UFC wants to reward him with one last shot at glory, now is the moment.

This three-way tug-of-war leaves Dana White with a tough decision. Go with the most deserving? The most marketable? Or the one whose clock is ticking?

Topuria’s Current Focus

Interestingly, Topuria himself seems less concerned about his UFC challengers at the moment. The Spanish-Georgian champion has turned his attention toward the boxing world, specifically Terence Crawford.

Fresh off Crawford’s stunning win over Canelo Alvarez to become the undisputed super middleweight champion, Topuria has been stirring the pot with bold predictions. On social media, he declared:
“I won’t talk about what would happen between me and Crawford in an octagon, I’ll talk about what would happen in a ring. I put him to sleep in the first contact!”

While the UFC lightweight division is clamoring for clarity, Topuria appears eager to test himself outside the cage, setting up yet another potential crossover spectacle in the vein of Conor McGregor vs Floyd Mayweather.

Why Gaethje Makes Sense Now

For Chiesa and many others, the timing makes Gaethje the right choice. Pimblett and Tsarukyan are still relatively young and can wait their turn, but Gaethje is in the final stretch of his career. His style guarantees fireworks, and a matchup with Topuria would provide fans with an explosive battle.

Chiesa summarized it perfectly: “The Paddy fight’s always gonna be there because those guys have youth on their side. Justin Gaethje doesn’t.”

In other words, if the UFC doesn’t act now, the chance to see Gaethje fight for undisputed gold could vanish forever.

The UFC’s Dilemma

Dana White finds himself in a classic promotional balancing act. The UFC thrives on both competitive merit and star power. Tsarukyan deserves it. Pimblett sells it. Gaethje has earned it through years of blood, sweat, and unforgettable battles. Choosing the right challenger isn’t just about rankings—it’s about timing, business, and legacy.

For now, fans wait impatiently for White to announce Topuria’s next move. Whether it’s Pimblett, Tsarukyan, or Gaethje, one thing is certain: Ilia Topuria’s reign will be tested in dramatic fashion.

Conclusion

The debate over Ilia Topuria’s next challenger is one of the hottest topics in the UFC today. With voices like Michael Chiesa pushing hard for Justin Gaethje, the pressure is mounting on Dana White to reward one of MMA’s most beloved warriors with a final chance at glory.

But in a division stacked with contenders, every choice comes with consequences. Will the UFC honor Gaethje’s legacy, bank on Pimblett’s star power, or stick to merit with Tsarukyan? Whatever the decision, fans can be sure that Topuria’s next fight will carry enormous stakes and no shortage of fireworks.