Paddy Pimblett Declares Topuria Far From McGregor’s Shadow

The UFC is a breeding ground for legends, but only a few fighters have ever managed to transcend the sport and become true superstars. Conor McGregor is undoubtedly the biggest name the sport has ever produced, and now, as the UFC searches for its next megastar, one name keeps surfacing—Ilia Topuria.

However, not everyone is convinced that Topuria is the next big thing. Paddy Pimblett, one of the most outspoken figures in MMA today, has completely dismissed the idea that Topuria is on the same trajectory as McGregor. In a recent interview, Pimblett did not hold back, calling out the UFC’s attempt to manufacture another McGregor-like superstar.

But is Pimblett just stirring the pot, or is he exposing a harsh truth? Can Ilia Topuria really escape McGregor’s shadow, or is he just another fighter being hyped up too soon? Let’s break it down.

Is Topuria truly the heir to McGregor’s throne, or is this just another overhyped illusion? Pimblett seems to think the latter, and he isn’t afraid to say it.

Paddy Pimblett Exposes the Myth of Ilia Topuria’s Greatness

While Ilia Topuria has been gaining serious momentum in the UFC, Paddy Pimblett remains one of the few fighters openly questioning the narrative around the Spanish-Georgian rising star. In a brutally honest rant, Pimblett shared his thoughts on why Topuria is far from being the next McGregor. “People are hyping him up like he’s some unstoppable force, but let’s be real—he hasn’t done anything close to what Conor did in his prime. The UFC is desperate for another megastar, so they’re trying to make him the guy. But he’s nowhere near McGregor’s level.”

These statements have ignited a debate among MMA fans. Some believe Topuria is well on his way to greatness, while others agree with Pimblett’s assessment that he has a long road ahead before he can be compared to a global icon like McGregor.

McGregor’s Stardom vs. Topuria’s Rising Fame

1. McGregor Took Over the Game

   • Conor McGregor didn’t just win fights—he dominated in electrifying fashion. His quick knockouts, his brash personality, and his ability to control the fight game made him a household name. Topuria, on the other hand, has yet to achieve anything close to that level of stardom.

2. Star Power & Charisma

   • Whether you love him or hate him, McGregor had a magnetic presence. His press conferences were must-watch events, his insults were legendary, and his ability to sell a fight was second to none. Topuria, while skilled, lacks that same larger-than-life aura.

3. Box Office & Pay-Per-View Sales

   • McGregor shattered UFC PPV records. He became the biggest draw in the sport, making millions with each fight. Can Topuria do the same? Pimblett isn’t convinced.

Is Ilia Topuria Being Overhyped? Pimblett Thinks So

Despite being undefeated, Topuria still has a lot to prove. Pimblett argues that his resume isn’t as impressive as people make it out to be. “Beating a few names doesn’t make you a legend. He’s good, but people are acting like he’s already at McGregor’s level—that’s a joke!”

The UFC’s Desperate Need for a New Superstar

The UFC has been hunting for its next global superstar since McGregor’s dominance faded. While fighters like Israel Adesanya, Sean O’Malley, and Khamzat Chimaev have brought excitement, none have replicated the McGregor effect.

Topuria is being pushed hard by the promotion, but according to Pimblett, this push is more about the UFC’s desperation than Topuria’s actual ability to become a worldwide sensation. “They need a new cash cow, and they’re hoping it’s Ilia. But just because they want him to be the next McGregor doesn’t mean he actually is.”

The UFC’s Desperate Need for a New Superstar

The UFC has been searching for a new superstar ever since McGregor’s dominance faded. While fighters like Israel Adesanya, Sean O’Malley, and Khamzat Chimaev have brought excitement, none have managed to replicate the same level of global fame.

Now, the UFC appears to be heavily investing in Topuria, but is this strategy driven by genuine belief in his talent, or is it merely a desperate attempt to manufacture another McGregor-like figure?

Pimblett thinks the latter. “They need someone to fill the void, so they’re pushing Topuria hard. But that doesn’t mean he’s the next McGregor. The UFC is just trying to make something out of nothing.”

If Topuria fails to live up to expectations, the UFC’s attempt to create a new superstar may backfire.

Will Ilia Topuria Prove Pimblett Wrong?

For all of Paddy Pimblett’s criticism, Ilia Topuria now has the opportunity to silence his doubters. With his upcoming fights, he has the chance to showcase whether he is truly destined for greatness—or if Pimblett is right and he’s simply an overrated fighter caught in the UFC’s marketing machine.

The rivalry between Pimblett and Topuria is only heating up. Could this war of words turn into an actual fight inside the octagon? One thing’s for sure—the world will be watching.

The Road Ahead: What Ilia Topuria Must Do to Prove Himself

If Ilia Topuria wants to prove Paddy Pimblett wrong and silence the critics, there are a few key steps he must take.

Win a UFC Championship

Until Topuria holds UFC gold, any talk of him being the next big thing is premature. Fighters like Alexander Volkanovski, Max Holloway, and Yair Rodriguez still stand in his way, and beating them is easier said than done.

Secure a Defining Moment

Every UFC superstar has that one moment that solidifies their legacy. McGregor had Aldo. Khabib had McGregor. Adesanya had Costa.

Topuria needs his own defining moment—a fight that leaves no doubt that he is truly one of the sport’s elite.

Build His Star Power

If Topuria wants to be the next McGregor, he needs to build his brand outside the octagon. That means improving his media presence, increasing fan engagement, and finding ways to generate viral moments.

Final Thoughts: Is Topuria the Real Deal or Just Another Hype Train?

The comparison between Ilia Topuria and Conor McGregor is inevitable, but as Paddy Pimblett pointed out, the two fighters are still worlds apart. While Topuria has the talent to make a name for himself, he has yet to prove that he can reach the same level of global superstardom as McGregor.

Whether you agree with Pimblett or not, one thing is clear: Topuria’s next few fights will define his career. Will he rise to the occasion, or will he crumble under the weight of expectations?

The answer is coming soon, and the world will be watching.