Paddy Pimblett got a feeling of the power of Ilia Topuria, moments after the UFC 317 Main Event.
A new hunter was added to the club of two -division champions in the UFC last Saturday after Topuria Charles Oliveira had eliminated.
The result saw Topuria add the lightweight title to a trophy cabinet that contained all the UFC -Fedweight gold. But El Matador 'had hardly any time to celebrate the 155 -pound belt that was wrapped around his waist before a potential first challenger of his reign entered the cage.
Topuria stood opposite Pimblett, culminating in the newly crowned champion that pushed 'The Baddy' after they had exchanged heated words.
Paddy Pimblett reflects on heated Ilia Topuria Face-Off on UFC 317
While Justin Gaethje and Arman Tsarukyan have also established their claims for the title shot, Pimblett apparently brought himself into an excellent position after the Octagon -fight on UFC 317.
The scouser discussed the potential fight and his face-off with Topuria during an appearance on ESPN's UFC 317 Post Show with Brendan Fitzgerald and Chael Sonnen.
Although Topuria carried out the push while holding a title on every shoulder, Pimblett said he got enough feeling to determine the power of the new champion.
“I am always prepared. I am always ready to do that (face),” Pimblett said.
“He didn't get a big push, he only has a little one. But he feels weak … he is small.”
Dana White was not a fan of the Ilia Topuria-Paddy Pimblett Clash
Face-offs such as those who concluded that UFC 317 have long been seen in the promotion and have worked to set up some heat for future periods.
However, the UFC CEO is not a fan.
During his press conference after Saturday's PPV, Dana White criticized the one who allowed Pimblett to enter a cage that also had Topuria's family in it.
“My thing with Ilia Topuria is that his wife and child are in the octhoek,” said White. “It shouldn't happen.
“I don't give it – if it was fun to look or not. That shouldn't happen … It was a bad call by whom they let there in God.”