Justin Gaethje defeated Paddy Pimblett by unanimous decision from the side judges in the main event of UFC 324, held at T-Mobile
The scores were 49-46, 49-46 and 48-47 in favor of Gaethje. The fight marked Pimblett’s first defeat in the UFC octagon.
The confrontation brought together two athletes known for their aggressive style. Gaethje, a veteran of the division, imposed a greater volume of significant blows and controlled much of the action against the cage.
Development of the fight
Gaethje started the first round with constant pressure and landed blows to the body that affected Pimblett early on. The Englishman responded with quick combinations, but absorbed visible damage throughout the opening minutes.
In the second and third rounds, the American maintained the strategy of forcing his opponent against the cage. Pimblett suffered two knockdowns and three falls throughout the fight, according to official statistics.
- Main scams connected by Gaethje: more than 150 significant ones.
- Knockdowns applied: two in total.
- Takedown attempts converted: three successful.
- Control against the fence: dominant in most rounds.
The fourth round showed greater balance, with Pimblett seeking greater volume. Gaethje, however, responded with powerful counterattacks that maintained the advantage on the cards.
In the fifth and final round, both exhausted their physical reserves in frank exchanges. The American closed the fight with greater precision in his decisive blows.
Statements from the fighters after the fight
Paddy Pimblett recognized his rival’s superiority in a post-fight interview. The Englishman declared that Gaethje is a legend of the sport and that there was no better person to suffer defeat.
Pimblett dedicated his performance to recent accident victims and raising awareness about men’s mental health. Ele emphasized the importance of seeking help in difficult times.
Gaethje celebrated winning the interim title and highlighted his opponent’s resistance. The American reinforced his fighting style based on constant pressure and high volume.
UFC president Dana White confirmed that Pimblett underwent medical examinations at a local hospital. The director praised the intensity of the main clash.
Recent trajectory of Justin Gaethje
Justin Gaethje arrived at UFC 324 with a professional record of 26 wins and 5 losses before the event. The 37-year-old athlete has a history of fights that received performance bonuses.
Gaethje won the BMF belt in a previous meeting and had positive results against high-level opponents. Sua win over Pimblett took the record to 27-5.
The American is known for his high-risk striking and knockout power. Ele has 20 submissions via knockout or technical interruption in his career.
Gaethje now holds the interim lightweight title. The organization has not yet announced a date for unification with the linear champion.
Paddy Pimblett’s performance despite the defeat
Paddy Pimblett entered the Octagon undefeated in the UFC, with seven consecutive victories in the organization. The Englishman held an overall record of 23-3 before the clash.
Despite the setback, the 31-year-old received praise for lasting five rounds against an elite striker. Pimblett absorbed around 200 significant blows during the fight.
- UFC wins before UFC 324: seven in a row.
- Career finishes: ten per submission.
- Decisions obtained: six in total.
- Previous professional losses: three outside the UFC.
Analysts highlighted that the performance raised the status of Pimblett in the division. The Englishman demonstrated absorption capacity and volume even at a disadvantage.
Other main card highlights
The UFC 324 card featured balanced clashes in several categories. Waldo Cortes-Acosta won by decision in a heavyweight fight.
Natalia Silva maintained a positive streak in the women’s flyweight division. The Brazilian overcame her ranked opponent and got closer to the top of the category.
Arnold Allen returned to winning ways in the featherweight division. The Englishman defeated a top 10 opponent on points.
The co-main event featured Sean O’Malley against Song Yadong in a hectic contest. The American maintained a high pace throughout the rounds.
General event statistics
UFC 324 saw high striking in the main event, with more than 300 significant strikes combined. Gaethje led in accuracy and accumulated damage.
Pimblett showed greater volume at specific moments, but not enough to reverse the cards. The fight received the best of the event award from the organization.
The public at T-Mobile Arena watched the night of majority decisions on the main card. Quatro of the five main fights went to the judges.
The organization distributed bonuses for outstanding performances in secondary fights. Atletas from lower divisions also received recognition.
Positioning in the lightweight division
Justin Gaethje consolidates himself as the main challenger for the linear title with the victory. The interim paves the way for future unification disputes.
Paddy Pimblett maintains his position in the rankings despite the defeat. The Englishman remains among the top 15 in the lightweight category.
The lightweight division remains competitive with established and rising names. Gaethje reinforces his reputation as an athlete with electrifying combats.
The UFC is still defining next steps for both fighters. Retornos must occur throughout 2026 in numbered events.
