There are only two fighters who have survived against Topuria in MMA. Josh Emmett, who was praised for his toughness across five rounds, and another featherweight, who could go all the way to the title. Youssef Zalal is the first and only fighter to reach a three-round decision with Topuria.

Pimblett (23-3 MMA, 7-0 UFC) was in attendance when Topuria (17-0 MMA, 9-0 UFC) knocked out Charles Oliveira to claim the lightweight title in this past Saturday's UFC 317 headliner at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Pimblett faced off with Topuria in the octagon, and the pair have continued to go at each other ever since.