Paddy Pimblett provokes Ilia Topuria and accuses Justin Gaethje of illegal strike before UFC 329

Topuria was punished by Gaethje in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/UFC

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Escalated to face Benoit Saint-Denis in the co-main fight of UFC 329, this Saturday (11), in Las Vegas (USA), Paddy Pimblett He commented again on the defeat to Justin gaethje ...and reignited the controversy surrounding the fight. The Briton, who was defeated by unanimous decision at UFC 324 in January, claimed he suffered illegal blows during the fight and took the opportunity to provoke... Ilia Topuria, former lightweight champion (up to 70,3 kg).

During the event's 'media day', held last Wednesday, Pimblett again complained about the defeat to Justin gaethje and compared his situation to that of Topuria in the lightweight title fight, in White HouseAccording to the Englishman, the Georgian did not suffer any illegal blows during the confrontation, but ended up absorbing more punches than he did.

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“All the damage to my face was caused by a finger poke in the eye with a right hand, it wasn’t just a finger poke in the eye, lad. I felt a thumb touch my brain. Did Ilia get a finger poke? I don’t think so, lad, he just got his face smashed. I’m going to punch him in the head for him,” the Briton stated.

In addition to once again questioning the actions of Justin gaethje'The Baddy' used the statement to take a jab at Topuria, with whom he has a long-standing rivalry. The two have exchanged numerous provocations in recent years and even got into a brawl backstage at a UFC event in London, increasing expectations for a possible future confrontation.

Despite the complaints, the result of the fight against the American was upheld by the organization and there were no official changes after the bout. Now, Pimblett is trying to turn the page on his fight against the American. Benoit Saint-DenisA victory over the Frenchman could put him back among the top contenders for the lightweight title and bring him closer to a highly anticipated duel against his rival. Ilia Topuria.

Next step for English: UFC 329

Paddy Pimblett He lost to Gaethje at UFC 324. Photo: Reproduction/X/UFC

Pimblett faces Saint Denis in the co-main fight of UFC 329In a fight considered crucial for both fighters' aspirations in the lightweight division, the winner should make a significant leap in the race for the belt.

After suffering the first defeat of his career in the event against Justin gaethjeThe Briton is looking for a convincing performance to get back on the winning track, reaffirm his status among the top names in the division, and strengthen his candidacy for a future title fight.

On the other side, Saint Denis is trying to maintain his momentum and consolidate his rise against one of the organization's most popular athletes. With the lightweight division constantly in motion, whoever leaves the octagon with their arm raised should definitely enter the organization's radar to face the elite of the category.