, or so we thought. Now it seems the fight could be in jeopardy with continued delays to an official announcement from UFC President Dana White.<\/span><\/p>\nThe general consensus is that Topuria\u2019s first UFC Lightweight Title defence against Pimblett is still the front-running option, but there is now some doubt over the bout due to further delays and hold ups.<\/span><\/p>\nThere is of course the added narrative that Justin Gaethje is demanding he be next for Topuria. The American has of course fought for the 155-pound belt twice, losing to Khabib Nurmagomedov and Charles Oliveira.<\/span><\/p>\nAlthough he has lost for the title twice, Gaethje has not been quiet in his demands for a third shot at the belt and Topuria\u2019s champion spot. Although there has been continued jostling between Pimblett and Gaethje, not to mention Arman Tsarukyan, over who will be Topuria\u2019s next fight, \u2018The Paddy\u2019 remains the most likely option.<\/span><\/p>\nThe Spanish-Georgian MMA star will likely defend his UFC Lightweight Title at UFC 324 in the first numbered event of next year. Next year’s first numbered card also coincides with the beginning of the UFC\u2019s new $7.7billion broadcast deal with Paramount+.<\/span><\/p>\nTopuria vs Pimblett would be an ideal way to kickstart the new multi-billion dollar broadcast deal, but it seems there is still plenty of work to do if UFC 324 is to be announced with \u2018Em Matador\u2019 as the main event against bitter rival \u2018The Baddy\u2019.<\/span><\/p>\n