Paddy Pimblett stands out as the leading candidate for Ilia Topuria’s next lightweight bout, with the market reflecting his vocal pursuit and the division’s scheduling constraints. Topuria has remained inactive since his first career loss, a fourth-round TKO to champion Justin Gaethje in June, while Pimblett submitted Benoit Saint Denis in July and has repeatedly highlighted Topuria as the only viable high-profile option left after potential matchups like Arman Tsarukyan versus Gaethje and other contenders’ bouts. Recent October comments from Pimblett framing Topuria as “damaged goods” and targeting a March or April 2027 return have reinforced trader focus on the grudge match. Multiple unconfirmed reports suggest the pairing could already be in motion, though no official announcement exists and alternatives such as rematches or lower-ranked opponents remain possible.