UFC lightweight veteran Justin Gaethje has responded to Paddy Pimblett’s recent remarks about Ilia Topuria, making it clear that he’s focused on his own climb toward championship contention — not on trading headlines with the outspoken Englishman.

Pimblett, who has been vocal about wanting a fight with Topuria, recently accused the UFC of “protecting” the reigning champion and claimed he’s ready to expose him. Gaethje, however, brushed off the noise, suggesting that Pimblett’s comments are more about attention than substance.

“This sport’s wild right now — everyone wants to talk their way into a title shot,” Gaethje said. “I’m focused on making mine happen the right way. When the time’s right, I’ll be there.”

Gaethje, who remains one of the most explosive finishers in the division, hasn’t fought since his knockout loss earlier this year but has stayed in the gym and hinted that his next bout will align closely with Topuria’s next appearance. Insiders believe Gaethje could be positioning himself for a high-profile comeback — possibly even on the same card as the champion.

Pimblett’s callouts have fueled weeks of online chatter, but Gaethje’s response underscores the gap between rising names chasing viral moments and proven contenders who’ve already battled at the sport’s highest level. The former interim lightweight champion emphasized that his focus remains on competition, not controversy.

“I’ve been through every kind of fight there is — I don’t need to call people out to get one,” he said. “If I fight for gold again, it’ll be earned, not handed.”

As speculation swirls around the UFC’s next title picture, Gaethje’s statement sends a reminder that respect in the Octagon is still earned through performance — not sound bites. Whether he faces Topuria down the line or charts a different course, one thing is clear: Gaethje intends to let his fighting do the talking.