Paddy Pimblett Responds to Ilia Topuria’s Justin Gaethje Gloves Accusation

Paddy Pimblett Responds to Ilia Topuria’s Justin Gaethje Gloves Accusation 

 

One of UFC’s most recognizable lightweight contenders, Paddy Pimblett, known for his outspoken personality and aggressive fighting style, had a few thoughts to share about the ongoing discussion surrounding Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje. Former lightweight champion Topuria questioned whether Gaethje’s gloves were properly checked, leading Pimblett to dismiss his suggestion, pointing out the procedures all fighters have to go through before entering the Octagon. 

 

Paddy Pimblett Responds to Ilia Topuria’s Gloves Claims 

 

Topuria raised the issue on September 16, 2026, in a post on X, while announcing the completion of his final medical tests to return to the competition soon after his June 14 fight at UFC Freedom 250 against Justin Gaethje, where he surrendered the lightweight championship.

 

Topuria took to social media to announce that if they meet again, he would “make sure they check Justin’s gloves,” insinuating that Gaethje should not “put anything weird” on them.

 

His X post prompted a fresh round of discussions around the bout, causing Pimblett, who has had a long-running rivalry with Topuria, to comment on it. He quickly made his position clear, calling out Topuria’s remarks. 

 

The Liverpool native commented, “The commission makes sure your hands are wrapped up before the fight. I think Ilia’s being a sore loser.” 

 

He also added that he wouldn’t be surprised if the two fighters returned to the cage for a potential rematch, especially with the new comments adding fuel to the rivalry. 

 

“With everything going on with Ilia and Justin, it wouldn’t surprise me if they did fight and have a rematch, either way.” 

 

The current comments have added another layer of rivalry to the already-occurring back-and-forth between Pimblett and Topuria. Although they have traded barbs on social media for years, they have yet to face off in the Octagon. 

Justin Gaethje and the Commission Push Back 

 

Meanwhile, Topuria’s comments have received a response from Gaethje himself, who asked Topuria to focus on the result rather than the gloves. He even called out Topuria’s comments, saying they were “just another lame excuse” for losing the fight. 

 

Additionally,  Andy Foster of the California State Athletic Commission commented on Gaethje’s gloves and wraps being “fine and totally within regulations” after multiple inspections by officials. 

 

This leaves the controversy centered on Topuria’s comments, rather than a confirmed equipment violation. This may be a major reason for a rematch between the two in the future. Notably, Topuria also seems interested in returning to the lightweight division, the current rivalry adding fuel to the conversation around the UFC’s rankings.