Overview
- Paddy Pimblett publicly called out Ilia Topuria and Arman Tsarukyan on the Green Light podcast and said he expects a fight announcement in the coming days after his 52‑second win at UFC 329.
- Arman Tsarukyan is officially scheduled to face Mauricio Ruffy in the co‑main event at UFC 331 on Sept. 19 in Los Angeles, a fight multiple outlets report could put the winner next in line for the belt.
- Tsarukyan has said he was verbally promised a title shot if he defeats Ruffy, a claim reported by several outlets but not formally confirmed by the promotion.
- Ilia Topuria remains sidelined after suffering heavy facial damage in his June loss to Justin Gaethje, with Topuria unlikely to return before year‑end and therefore not in immediate title contention.
- Personal attacks and heated callouts are increasing media attention but the practical drivers of who fights next are current bookings and Topuria’s recovery, which will force the UFC to sequence contenders around scheduled cards.