Overview
- Topuria posted on X that he plans to fight between April and June against the winner of Justin Gaethje vs. Paddy Pimblett at UFC 324.
- UFC 324 features Gaethje vs. Pimblett for an interim lightweight title on January 24 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
- Reporters say the UFC does not plan to strip Topuria of the undisputed belt and could allow an interim title defense if his return is delayed.
- Welterweight champion Islam Makhachev said he will not drop back to 155 pounds and invited Topuria to move up if they are to meet.
- Topuria dismissed talk that Makhachev would submit him and brushed off Arman Tsarukyan’s challenge as “easy” while he focuses on the interim winner.