Dustin Poirier names the man he thinks Paddy Pimblett should be facing next.
Pimblett is currently on a seven-fight win streak in the UFC, after dominating Michael Chandler in April.
The Liverpudlian has made it very clear that he wants a shot at a world title, following his success in the promotion thus far.
Following UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria‘s win over Charles Oliveira in June, Pimblett entered the Octagon to challenge his freshly claimed lightweight strap.
But, also said he would be open to fighting once more before a potential match-up with the current divisional king.
As speculation continues over who his next opponent will be, Poirier has given his verdict on Pimblett’s best route to the fight he is so eager for.
During an interview with MMA Junkie, the former interim UFC lightweight champion explained: “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.
“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.”
Is Paddy Pimblett ready to fight Ilia Topuria?
Pimblett established himself on the mixed martial arts scene after debuting in 2012, and has yet to face an opponent that can defeat him in the UFC.
Although the two-weight UFC champion, Topuria, would certainly bring a new set of challenges for the 30-year-old.
Pimblett and Topuria both have impressive MMA career records, aside from their ventures in the UFCWhile the general consensus is that other fighters deserve the Topuria fight more, Pimblett is ready and waiting should the call come.
Lightweights Justin Gaethje and Arman Tsarukyan are believed to be the frontrunners for Topuria’s first title defence, despite Pimblett’s repeated call-outs.
That being said, Poirier doesn’t think that the opportunity for the Brit is off the cards entirely.
But instead, suggests that ‘The Baddy’ needs one more fight before meeting with the lightweight champ in order to really prove his ability.
He explained: “Put Max in there with Pimblett.
“That’s a fun fight to find out what level Paddy is really at.
Pimblett has repeatedly told Topuria he’s coming for him in their brazen back-and-forth exchangesGetty Poirier instead wants recent rival Holloway to be next for Pimblett to test his credentialsGetty“But there’s a bunch of fun fights for Max. 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.”
Should we would see Pimblett score a win against a top five ranked lightweight, like Holloway, he would certainly prove his worthiness of a title shot.
Although it wouldn’t exactly be the kind of title that Pimblett is vying for, there could be one up for grabs should he fight Holloway.
As when Holloway was last seen in July, he defeated Poirier to retain his BMF title.
During that bout, Holloway sustained an injury which is suspected to keep him sidelined until 2026.
Meaning Pimblett certainly would have ample time to prepare for a clash with the former featherweight champion early in 2026.
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