Arman Tsarukyan says a fight with Paddy Pimblett would be a poor next step for Ilia Topuria following his corner stoppage loss to Justin Gaethje at UFC Freedom 250, and suggested a win over Michael Chandler would be a better rebound option.
Tsarukyan made the comments on The Ariel Helwani Show.
Paddy is not the best matchup for him after that loss. Because Paddy has a good chin, it’s difficult to knock him out. Five rounds, it’s going to be tough with Paddy. Just give him Michael Chandler. Come back, knock him out. They’ve got to protect him, you know.
Tsarukyan also credited Topuria for accepting the loss without making excuses, while suggesting overconfidence contributed to the defeat.
I think this loss is going to give him a lot of lessons. Not to be overconfident and to respect your opponent and keep grinding. I think he was more focused on his media stuff more than training camp.