Ilia Topuria acknowledged Paddy Pimblett‘s victory over Michael Chandler at UFC 314 but criticized Chandler’s skill level, suggesting the fight lacked technical prowess and was more of an entertaining brawl.
Ilia Topuria has some thoughts on Paddy Pimblett’s recent victory at UFC 314. He reckons Pimblett did what was necessary against a less challenging opponent. In Miami, Pimblett took down Michael Chandler in the third round, marking his seventh win in the octagon.
Their rivalry? Oh, it’s been simmering for years. While chatting on the Joe Rogan Experience, Topuria shared his candid take on Pimblett’s performance. "He did a great job," he admitted, but quickly added, "Chandler never was an extraordinary fighter."
Topuria questioned Chandler’s credentials. "Who did he beat in the UFC?" he mused, pointing out Chandler’s victories over Dan Hooker and an aging Tony Ferguson.
Meanwhile, Topuria stole some spotlight at UFC 314 himself. He vacated his featherweight title, which Alexander Volkanovski claimed in a bout against Diego Lopes. Now, Topuria’s eyeing a lightweight showdown with Islam Makhachev.
As for Chandler? Topuria acknowledges his appeal to fans. Yet, he argues that greatness isn’t just about putting on a show. "You see wars," he said. "It’s like a bar fight—entertaining but lacking technique."
Fans might enjoy the spectacle, but Topuria insists there’s more to it than punches flying. "You don’t see skills," he argued, lamenting the absence of strategic maneuvers or slick submissions.
In his view, it’s all about wild brawls—exciting but not educational. "I’d never tell someone to watch him and learn," Topuria concluded with a shrug.