Not everyone was impressed by the UFC -Fedweight career of Ilia Topuria.
'El Matador' is quickly approaching the start of a new chapter. After leaving the belt of 145 pounds, Topuria will fight against Charles Oliveira in competition for the lightweight Kroon.
The decision of the Spaniard to pursue a new piece of UFC gold, has brought an end to his featherweight career.
Although his reign was shorter than most of them, Topuria was still able to beat two hunters who were considered contenders for the status of the greatest of all time in the division.
But that is not enough to convince one of his enemies that something spectacular was achieved.
Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC
Paddy Pimblett criticizes Ilia Topuria's strength of schedule in the UFC
Although the paths of the couple have always appeared far away from crossing the cage, the feud of Topuria with Paddy Pimblett has continued to intensify.
During a recent interview with TNT Sports, 'The Baddy' proved just as well by removing the performance of the Georgian Spanish star in the UFC.
“He has done a lot in the sport, but I still think he is hand -fed opponents,” said Pimblett.
'[Max] Holloway had just fought at 155 [pounds]had a war with [Justin] Gaethje. People [Alexander Volkanovski] Was just switched off like two months earlier … Josh Emmett was like 37. Bryce [Mitchell]No matter how much I love Bryce, we know he is not a striker.
“Every fight he had before the title, Michael Chandler beats them all. I think Bobby Green beats them all.”
It could be said that 'The Baddy' somewhat returns the favor. A similar sentiment was shared when Topuria rated Pimblett's victory over Chandler and it a victory over an 'average hunter'.
Ilia Topuria's path to the UFC -Fedweight Title
Topuria registered six victories between signing for the UFC and competing for the featherweight championship.
Highlights-Reel Knockouts from Damon Jackson, Ryan Hall and Jai Herbert deserved 'El Matador' a shot on the top 15 pillar Bryce Mitchell. He got the most from the pay-per-view spot by destroying 'Thug Nasty' in all areas of the Vecht game.
Although he could not find the finish next time, a one -sided Beatdown from Josh Emmett in the UFC Jacksonville Main Event was enough to find Topuria a shot at Alexander Volkanovski.
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Topuria does not have to take a similar path on the lightweight ladder after its weight switch.
The 28-year-old immediately receives a shot at the soon-Vacant title in the UFC 317 Main Event during the International Vechtweek in June.