Paddy Pimblett Opens Up on His UFC 324 Defeat to Justin Gaethje and How It Felt Differently

Paddy Pimblett Reflects on UFC 324 Loss to Justin Gaethje

Ever since Ilia Topuria retired on his stool after the fourth round against Justin Gaethje at UFC Freedom 250, fans have started viewing Paddy Pimblett's own loss to Gaethje in a new way. Pimblett faced his first defeat in the UFC against Gaethje at UFC 324, held in January 2026.

The two clashed for the interim lightweight championship during the promotion's first card on Paramount+. The fight was marked by controversy due to several eye pokes and a low blow that Pimblett suffered, which raised questions about the referee's choice not to deduct any points. Ultimately, two judges scored the bout 49-46 favoring Gaethje.

Moving Past the Setback

When asked if he had moved on from that loss, Pimblett simply said, "Yeah, Sunday morning, it was, that's done. Let's move on." This shows a straightforward approach to the defeat without dwelling on it emotionally.

Pimblett last fought in July 2026 and has not yet announced who he will face next. He mentioned in the same interview that his comeback is not expected soon, aiming instead for a return during the first quarter of 2027.

Looking Ahead

After his commanding submission win over Saint Denis, Pimblett hopes to carry forward that momentum when he steps back into the Octagon. With the memory of his initial UFC loss fading, fans are eager to see who the Liverpudlian fighter will challenge next.