White On Paddy vs. Topuria TUF Season

Dana White backs the prospect of Paddy Pimblett and Ilia Topuria coaching opposite each other on The Ultimate Fighter — if the schedule allows it.

The UFC president addressed Pimblett's pitch during the UFC 332 post-fight press conference in Salt Lake City. "I mean, I love the idea of that," White said, per MMA Mania. "But a lot of things determine how things play out. Not just for TUF, but for certain fights and title fights, we'll see how the timing works out."

Lightweight Title Picture Clouds TUF Timeline

The lightweight championship situation complicates any plans for a TUF season. Justin Gaethje holds the belt with Arman Tsarukyan positioned as the top contender. Multiple reports suggest the UFC is considering a Gaethje-Topuria rematch instead, driven by the commercial success of their first meeting. A season of The Ultimate Fighter could serve as a holding pattern for Pimblett and Topuria if the promotion books Gaethje against Tsarukyan first.

White has stepped back from day-to-day matchmaking while focusing on Zuffa Boxing. Hunter Campbell now handles those negotiations. The UFC has historically been reluctant to compensate TUF coaches at the level high-profile fighters command, which MMA Mania noted led Jon Jones and Daniel Cormier to coach a Russian production instead of the actual show.

Pimblett called for the season last week, describing it as "a very interesting six weeks" between the two fighters. No TUF season has been announced.

Reported via:

• MMA Mania — Dana White down for Paddy vs. Ilia season of The Ultimate Fighter: ‘I love the idea’