Paddy Pimblett is set to compete against Justin Gaethje for the interim lightweight title at UFC 324 later this month, marking the biggest fight of his career. Despite his achievements inside the octagon, Pimblett feels that some fans and critics remain unsatisfied and continuously shift their expectations. The Liverpudlian aims to defeat Gaethje, then claim the undisputed title by finishing off current champion Ilia Topuria, before defending his belt against top contender Arman Tsarukyan.
Criticism Surrounding Pimblett’s Rapid Rise to Title Contention
Pimblett’s accelerated path to a title fight has sparked debate, as many question the quality of his past opponents, which include names like Bobby Green, Michael Chandler, and Tony Ferguson. Despite these doubts, Pimblett asserts that no matter the outcome, the criticism will persist, with detractors shifting their arguments about his performances and opponents. He highlighted that even a victory over Gaethje could be undermined by comments about ‘The Highlight’ being past his prime.
“No. The goalposts get moved again. Before this fight, it’s, ‘He’s getting knocked out, he can’t strike with Gaethje, he’s going to have to take him down straight away.’ As soon as I win, it’s going to be ‘Gaethje’s old, Gaethje’s past it.’” ?Paddy Pimblett, UFC Fighter
Pimblett Acknowledges Critics Will Keep Shifting the Narrative
In a recent interview with MMA Junkie, Pimblett expressed his frustration over the constant change in critical opinions. His statement underlined the persistent skepticism surrounding his bouts and skill set, regardless of how convincingly he performs. This ongoing theme of moving goalposts reflects the challenge Pimblett faces beyond just winning fights—proving his legitimacy in the eyes of the doubters.
Beating Top Fighters Like Ilia Topuria or Arman Tsarukyan Is Key to Silencing Doubters
Pimblett recognizes that overcoming notable opponents like Ilia Topuria or Arman Tsarukyan would be crucial in gaining widespread respect from fans and critics alike. Still, he anticipates the backlash will continue, as detractors might argue that Topuria’s background as a featherweight makes the victory less meaningful. Therefore, Pimblett plans to fight Tsarukyan, who is viewed as a more definitive litmus test within the lightweight division.
“So I need to fight someone like Ilia or Arman for people to actually believe. But then I’ll fight Ilia, I’ll beat Ilia, and it’ll be, ‘He was too small, he’s a featherweight, he’s not a lightweight.’ No matter what I do, it always gets spun. So the goalposts will get moved like they always do.” ?Paddy Pimblett, UFC Fighter
Impact of UFC 324 Changes and What Lies Ahead for Pimblett
The UFC 324 main card was recently updated following Kayla Harrison’s withdrawal, with Natalia Silva vs. Rose Namajunas now elevated to the main card, while Umar Nurmagomedov takes on Deiveson Figueiredo on the prelims. These changes set the stage for an intense event where Pimblett’s upcoming fight takes center focus. A victory at UFC 324 would not only advance Pimblett towards undisputed lightweight champion status but also pressure him to face top contenders and prove his legitimacy.
Pimblett’s struggle with critics underscores a broader challenge fighters face in achieving acceptance beyond their physical accomplishments. If he can overcome Gaethje and prove himself against champions like Topuria and Tsarukyan, it may finally quell some of the persistent doubts. However, as Pimblett himself predicts, the shifting narratives might continue to challenge his legacy regardless of his in-cage triumphs.
🚨 Updated #UFC324 main card following Kayla Harrison’s withdrawal
Natalia Silva vs Rose Namajunas moves to the main card, while Umar Nurmagomedov vs Deiveson Figueiredo stays on the prelims pic.twitter.com/v7Pm8hB2eY
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) January 15, 2026
Usman Nurmagomedov believes Paddy Pimblett isn’t elite and hasn’t earned a title shot😬‼️
“Paddy Pimblett doesn’t have anything. What does he have? Who’s Paddy?”
“He beat who? Michael Chandler? Everybody beats Michael Chandler, brother.”
“These guys are not elite. If you want… pic.twitter.com/2zdOfVDjtA
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) January 16, 2026
