STWF Sports|Nov. 17, 2025 – Paddy Pimblett is no stranger to uncertainty, but as 2025 winds down, “The Baddy” insists his path is becoming clearer—even if the lightweight division isn’t. The fan-favorite Liverpudlian has confirmed plans to return to the Octagon in early 2026, though his opponent remains very much up in the air as the UFC’s title picture continues to shift.

Pimblett has long been entangled in a heated rivalry with Ilia Topuria, the undefeated lightweight champion whose verbal sparring with Pimblett dates back to their first encounter in 2022. For years, fans have anticipated the eventual showdown. Pimblett still hopes the long-teased fight becomes reality, but Topuria’s next move is tied to an even bigger question: What will Islam Makhachev do next?

Makhachev’s Win Adds New Complications

Islam Makhachev’s recent victory at UFC 322 added fuel to an already complicated situation. The reigning lightweight king moved up in weight to defeat Jack Della Maddalena, leading to immediate speculation about whether he might stay at welterweight, return to lightweight, or pursue a champion-vs-champion matchup with Topuria.

Pimblett, watching the chessboard move in real time, acknowledged that Makhachev now serves as the division’s ultimate domino.

“Let’s see what’s happening now with Islam,” Pimblett said on his YouTube channel. “Is Ilia gonna stick to his words and say he’s going to move up, or is he going to stick to his other words and say he’s gonna fight me next? We don’t know what’s happening, do we?”

That uncertainty has left Pimblett—and the rest of the division—waiting for clarity. And while Topuria has publicly entertained both a superfight with Makhachev and a defense against Pimblett, neither option will be finalized until Makhachev himself decides on his next weight class.

Pimblett Staying Patient—But Determined

Despite the cloudiness of the lightweight hierarchy, Pimblett insisted he will not wait indefinitely. One way or another, he’s preparing to re-enter the cage.

“I could end up fighting Ilia, I could end up finally fighting Justin Gaethje like I thought I was going to in Abu Dhabi,” Pimblett said. “No one knows what’s happening until Islam decides what he is doing… I will be fighting early next year, no matter who it is. I will have an opponent. I will definitely be fighting early next year.”

His statement marks the firmest indication yet of his 2026 timetable, even as the UFC works through its championship logistics.

Reports indicate that Makhachev is unlikely to cut back down soon after bulking up for the Della Maddalena fight, meaning Topuria’s long-rumored move up to challenge him could be delayed or even dismissed. That, in turn, could accelerate a Pimblett title shot—or push him into a high-profile contender’s bout, possibly the Gaethje matchup he’s eyed for over a year.

Coach Confirms Early 2026 Target

Pimblett’s coach, Ellis Hampson, echoed his fighter’s confidence in a return window, revealing that a potential date has already been floated behind the scenes.

“Paddy’s just been working towards getting his next fight. He’s still waiting to hear, [but] he’s been told a possible date,” Hampson said on Pimblett’s YouTube channel. “Working on his strength and conditioning, getting his weight down, and working towards a date.”

Hampson also made it clear the team is still preparing for a Topuria matchup until they’re told otherwise.

“He’s hopefully fighting Ilia, working around a game plan and stuff for Ilia,” Hampson added. “He’s just ticking over really, waiting on some confirmation, so we can get some news and start working towards an opponent.”

Will the Topuria Fight Happen?

The Pimblett–Topuria rivalry remains one of the most entertaining unresolved feuds in the UFC. Their clash of personalities, contrasting skill sets, and ongoing verbal warfare make the matchup both marketable and overdue. But with two divisions, two champions, and one undecided superstar in Makhachev all tangled together, nothing is certain.

For now, Pimblett is training, waiting, and staying ready. And whether it’s Ilia Topuria, Justin Gaethje, or another top-10 contender standing across from him, “The Baddy” believes his moment in 2026 is coming—one way or another.

The lightweight chaos continues, but Paddy Pimblett is preparing to step back into the story.