Paddy Pimblett has declared that his upcoming fight against Justin Gaethje at UFC 324 will likely be the final bout of Gaethje’s career. The two are set to compete for the interim UFC Lightweight Championship on January 24th, marking a significant moment as the event also launches the Paramount era of the promotion. Pimblett’s focus is on defeating Gaethje and then moving forward to face Ilia Topuria in future matchups.
Build-Up and Rivalries Leading to the Fight
In the lead-up to UFC 324, Pimblett has engaged in a heated press tour where his provocative remarks have stirred tension among other fighters, including Dan Hooker and Ilia Topuria. This ongoing verbal exchange has amplified anticipation around the lightweight title fight. Despite rumors circulating about Gaethje battling a staph infection, the challenger dismissed concerns, assuring fans and media that he is in optimal condition to compete.
UFC 324 Fight Card Updates and Implications
Aside from the interim lightweight title clash, UFC 324’s co-main event now features Sean O’Malley against Song Yadong. This change follows the withdrawal of Kayla Harrison, the UFC Women’s Bantamweight Champion, who was originally scheduled to face the returning Amanda Nunes. The reshaped lineup adds further intrigue to the upcoming event, highlighting the evolving competitive landscape.
Significance of the Bout and Future Outlook
Pimblett’s prediction about ending Gaethje’s career elevates the stakes of their meeting, potentially marking a turning point in the lightweight division. Should Pimblett succeed, it could pave the way for a fresh rivalry with Topuria, signaling a shift in UFC’s title contention dynamics. UFC 324 thus stands as a critical juncture for both fighters and the promotion as a whole.
