In a dramatic Saturday night at UFC 317 in Las Vegas, Joe Rogan took center stage by calling out Paddy Pimblett as a potential contender for newly crowned lightweight champion Ilia Topuria, right after Topuria’s first-round knockout victory over Charles Oliveira. The electrifying moment unfolded when Rogan, chatting with Topuria, saw Pimblett in the audience and invited him into the Octagon, creating an impromptu face-off that caught everyone’s attention.
However, UFC CEO Dana White was not pleased with the unexpected spectacle. He expressed his discontent at a post-fight press conference, stating, “I don’t know who the hell let him in there. That should have never happened.” White’s frustration stemmed from the fact that Arman Tsarukyan, a more legitimate contender who had served as the backup fighter for the main event and cut weight for the fight, was overlooked in this setup.
Arman Tsarukyan, who has been waiting for his shot at the title, presents a formidable challenge for Topuria, as he brings a different fighting style compared to Pimblett. While Pimblett offers a flashier, entertainment-focused approach, Tsarukyan is viewed as a more technical fighter, making a match against Topuria a compelling encounter.
Topuria’s victory over Oliveira was nothing short of impressive. He showcased his striking power, landing clean shots that left Oliveira bleeding and struggling to survive. His confidence was palpable as he walked into the Octagon, and he demonstrated a remarkable ability to remain calm under pressure, a characteristic that could serve him well as a champion.
The light this scenario sheds on future matchups highlights an exciting time for the UFC, with several champions, including Tom Aspinall and Merab Dvalishvili, currently making waves. Upcoming fights appear promising as well, including a potential clash between Amanda Nunes and Kayla Harrison, and Zhong Weili facing Valentina Shevchenko.
With Topuria draped in dual belts and embracing his new status, the anticipation around his future battles, particularly against either Pimblett or Tsarukyan, continues to build. The UFC landscape seems particularly vibrant, promising fans thrilling matchups going forward. While Dana White may have disapproved of Rogan’s impromptu setup, the excitement created indicates that the UFC may be heading into a golden era filled with high-stakes drama and competitive clashes.