Dana White Enthusiastic About Ilia Topuria and Paddy Pimblett as 'The Ultimate Fighter' Coaches

UFC President Dana White sees potential in having Ilia Topuria and Paddy Pimblett lead opposing teams on "The Ultimate Fighter."

The rivalry between Topuria and Pimblett dates back to an incident in a fighter hotel lobby in 2022. Pimblett recently suggested that a season of "The Ultimate Fighter" featuring both him and Topuria would be compelling, setting the stage for their eventual fight.

"I think me and Ilia Topuria would be a brilliant season of The Ultimate Fighter because I’d get under his skin so much, that when we come into the fight, I’d beat him just as fast as McGregor beat Aldo," Pimblett stated. "The Ultimate Fighter would be a very entertaining six weeks to say the least if it was me and him."

White responded positively when questioned about this prospect at the UFC 332 post-fight press conference. While he couldn't confirm anything yet, he indicated strong approval.

"I mean, I love the idea of that," White commented. "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."

Topuria, who lost the UFC lightweight title to Justin Gaethje in June, has not yet scheduled his next fight. Many observers believe a bout against Pimblett would be a logical next step to resolve their ongoing feud.

Dana White is receptive to the idea of Ilia Topuria and Paddy Pimblett coaching on 'The Ultimate Fighter'.

The UFC President shared his positive thoughts on the potential matchup for the reality fighting show.

The animosity between Topuria and Pimblett has simmered since a 2022 encounter in a fighter hotel. Recently, Pimblett voiced his enthusiasm for starring on "The Ultimate Fighter" with Topuria, viewing it as a buildup to their eventual grudge match.

"I think me and Ilia Topuria would be a brilliant season of The Ultimate Fighter because I’d get under his skin so much, that when we come into the fight, I’d beat him just as fast as McGregor beat Aldo," Pimblett said. "The Ultimate Fighter would be a very entertaining six weeks to say the least if it was me and him."

When asked about this possibility, White expressed his liking for the concept during the UFC 332 post-fight press conference, though he refrained from making a definitive commitment.

"I mean, I love the idea of that," White stated. "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."

Topuria's last appearance was in June, where he lost his UFC lightweight title to Justin Gaethje. This marked his first professional MMA defeat. His next fight remains unconfirmed, but a resolution to his conflict with Pimblett is seen by many as a suitable direction for the UFC's matchmaking.