UFC 319: Topuria vs. Pimblett at MSG? 'I Want to Disfigure Him!'
Colaboradores
The MMA world is buzzing! Could we be witnessing Ilia Topuria vs. Paddy Pimblett headlining a massive UFC card at Madison Square Garden? MMA legend Michael Bisping certainly thinks so, stating he's “almost guarantee[ing] it.” The potential clash stems from a long-standing rivalry that ignited back in 2022 at the UFC London fighter hotel.
Topuria, fresh off his stunning first-round knockout victory over Charles Oliveira at UFC 317 to claim the lightweight title, now finds himself on a collision course with “The Baddy.” Pimblett entered the Octagon after Topuria's victory, seemingly setting the stage for a future showdown.
A Feud Ripe for the Octagon
The animosity between Topuria and Pimblett is palpable. Pimblett himself acknowledged the genuine dislike between them, comparing it to the Khabib Nurmagomedov vs. Conor McGregor rivalry. “We've got history. You don't even need to sell that fight. It sells itself,” Pimblett declared.
Pimblett's Vow: A Gruesome Finish
Adding fuel to the fire, Pimblett didn't hold back on his intentions. “I wouldn't even want to finish him fast,” he said. “I'd want to finish him with a minute left in the fight after I've elbowed him 700 times. I want to disfigure him.” This intense rhetoric only amplifies the anticipation surrounding a potential fight.
Will Pimblett's Skills Match His Words?
Bisping raised valid questions about Pimblett's ability to withstand Topuria's striking power and whether he could secure a takedown or submission. These questions will only be answered inside the Octagon.
While the UFC hasn't officially announced the fight, Bisping’s confidence and the clear desire from both fighters suggest that Topuria vs. Pimblett at Madison Square Garden might be closer to reality than speculation. The world is waiting to see if this rivalry explodes in one of the biggest fights of the year.