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."

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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.

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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’