Pimblett (22-4 MMA, 7-0 UFC) edged one step closer to title contention when he scored a dominant third-round finish of former title challenger Chandler at UFC 314 in April. Chandler (23-10 MMA, 2-5 UFC) thinks Pimblett could go on to become UFC champion, even though he doesn't see his overall skillset as elite.

If Ilia Topuria and Paddy Pimblett both get their wishes, they could be up next after the new champ's stellar lightweight title win at UFC 317.

B ack in April at UFC 314, Paddy Pimblett established himself as a legitimate top contender in the UFC's lightweight division, however, prior to his victory over Michael Chandler, 'The Baddy' was viewed by many as a product of hype. After his dominant win over the American, the perception of Pimblett changed forever.