UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria said he supports the promotion’s decision to book an interim title fight between Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett, describing the matchup as justified while he remains temporarily sidelined.

Topuria has stepped away from competition to address personal matters and said the UFC moved forward with the interim title bout to keep the lightweight division active. Gaethje and Pimblett are set to meet for the interim belt at UFC 324 in Las Vegas.

“Very good, very happy, the truth is that I had the conversation previously with the UFC, I knew what was happening,” Topuria said, according to ESPN Deportes. “They decided to make the fight for the interim title between Paddy Pimblett and Justin Gaethje. To me, it seems very well-deserved, for both is a pretty valid title, quite well-deserved, is the closest the two of them will be of holding a world championship.”

While backing the bout, Topuria made clear he still views himself as the top fighter in the division and expects to face the interim champion upon his return. “But at the end of the day, they will have to deal with the real deal,” he said, as noted by MMA Fighting.

Topuria also addressed the competitiveness of the matchup, highlighting the challenges both fighters present. “The truth is that it is always very difficult making predictions in such combats,” he said. “Justin is well-known because of his heavy hand, so that is a very exciting fight for all fans.”

The winner of Gaethje vs. Pimblett is expected to move into position for a unification bout once Topuria is ready to return. Topuria has not provided a specific timetable for his comeback, saying his focus remains on resolving his personal situation.