Imagine a lightweight UFC champion bracing for a showdown with an unpredictable underdog who's repeatedly defied expectations – it's the kind of clash that could redefine the division. But here's where it gets controversial: what if the underdog's raw, gritty style is precisely what the champ hopes to avoid? Let's dive into the buzz surrounding Paddy Pimblett and Ilia Topuria, straight from Pimblett's teammate, Shem Rock.
Paddy Pimblett has had his sights set on the UFC's lightweight titleholder for quite a while now. Back in the early part of the year, Pimblett got up close and personal with Ilia Topuria at UFC 317 (https://bloodyelbow.com/2025/06/29/security-step-in-as-paddy-pimblett-storms-the-cage-for-fiery-face-off-with-ilia-topuria-at-ufc-317), right after 'El Matador' claimed the 155-pound crown. Both fighters have only stepped into the Octagon once so far in 2025, and with the lineup for UFC 323 (https://bloodyelbow.com/tag/ufc-323) already locked in for December, that streak is likely to hold. UFC President Dana White has floated the idea that Topuria could return in January (https://bloodyelbow.com/2025/10/15/ilia-topuria-closes-in-on-ufc-return-as-dana-white-reveals-possible-comeback-timeline) to launch the promotion's exciting new partnership with Paramount in spectacular fashion. Given that this potential lightweight rival might be the one staring him down in the cage, a close ally of 'The Baddy' recently opened up about his take on things.
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Shem Rock thinks Paddy Pimblett's unique skills are exactly the kind Ilia Topuria would rather sidestep. Although rumors have swirled about a possible January bout between Topuria and Justin Gaethje (https://bloodyelbow.com/2025/10/05/headliner-for-dana-whites-massive-and-incredible-january-event-to-kick-off-paramount-deal-reported), there's no question that a Pimblett matchup looms as the more electrifying prospect. In fact, Pimblett has recently climbed higher in the UFC's lightweight rankings (https://bloodyelbow.com/2025/10/14/paddy-pimblett-surprisingly-continues-to-climb-lightweight-rankings-despite-six-month-break), even though he last fought in the Octagon back in April. In a recent chat with Bloody Elbow, Pimblett's training partner Shem Rock – who's just signed with the UFC and gearing up for his debut – shared that while he's not privy to any insider details, 'The Baddy' seems geared up for action. 'I see Paddy (https://bloodyelbow.com/tag/paddy-pimblett) hitting the gym regularly, sparring a couple of times a week. He's pushing hard with lifting sessions twice weekly and getting massages to recover. It's clear he's preparing for something big, so I expect to see him back in the cage soon – though who, where, when, and why are mysteries only he can solve.'
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Rock, who appreciates the magnitude of a Pimblett-Topuria collision (https://bloodyelbow.com/2025/10/02/ilia-topuria-vs-paddy-pimblett-needs-to-be-made-next-or-the-ufc-could-miss-out-on-all-time-fight), believes it's a monster opportunity for Topuria, but one the champion might not be eager to embrace. 'Paddy's strengths (https://bloodyelbow.com/tag/ilia-topuria) are the sorts that Topuria probably dreads facing, much like with someone such as Arman Tsarukyan.' For beginners dipping into MMA, this means Pimblett is known for his wrestling and ground game – techniques where he uses his physical power to control opponents on the mat, making it a long, exhausting battle. Rock argues that opponents who aim to turn fights into scrappy, close-quarters battles, forcing Topuria to grapple or endure tough exchanges, don't align with the undefeated champ's preference for striking from a distance. 'Taking on a fighter like Paddy? Good luck, man. He can absorb powerful punches, he's incredibly strong, and his presence in front of you is intimidating – he seems even bigger than his stats suggest. If he mounts you and takes the top position, it could turn into a grueling ordeal.' As a teammate, Rock admits his bias: 'Of course, I'm rooting for Paddy to win, but even as a neutral observer, this is a matchup I'd pay to watch unfold.'
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Shem Rock admires how Paddy Pimblett's unassuming look leads fans to underestimate him. While Topuria would probably enter as a heavy favorite against Pimblett, based purely on his recent victories, this wouldn't be the first time 'The Baddy' has been written off prematurely. Training alongside Pimblett at Next Generation MMA in Liverpool, Rock and his fellow fighters are affiliated with Reprimo, a brand launching an exclusive collection at JD Sports US stores. Having spent countless hours with Pimblett, Rock is fascinated by how the UFC lightweight is dismissed simply because of his casual appearance. 'Everyone's rooting against you, doubting your chances, and betting against you – yet time and again, you step in and deliver shocks. As Paddy puts it, they keep shifting the benchmarks. That's the magic of MMA. This guy's got longer hair, he doesn't resemble a intimidating figure like Francis Ngannou (https://bloodyelbow.com/tag/francis-ngannou), but he keeps proving them wrong.' And this is the part most people miss: the sport's appeal lies in these unexpected heroes. 'I adore that about mixed martial arts. If you spotted this dude strolling down the street without knowing his background, you'd never guess, 'Wow, there's a top-tier MMA fighter.' It's that element of surprise that makes it so thrilling.'
But here's where opinions might clash: Is Topuria truly avoiding certain styles, or is that just smart strategy? Some fans argue champions should face any challenge head-on for the biggest payouts and legacy, while others see it as prudent matchmaking to protect the title. What do you think – could Pimblett's underdog aura lead to an upset, or is Topuria too dominant? Share your predictions and disagreements in the comments below!
