Last night at UFC 324’s main event, Paddy Pimblett faced Justin Gaethje in a five-round interim lightweight title fight bout. After five grueling rounds, Gaethje emerged victorious, capturing the belt following a brutal, high-paced war between elite strikers inside the Octagon.
The contest delivered an instant classic, thrilling fans with relentless exchanges, momentum swings, and remarkable toughness displayed by both men. Heading into the matchup, Pimblett made bold claims, yet the 37-year-old veteran ultimately humbled him through experience and pressure.
The loss sparked widespread debate, criticism, and reaction across the MMA world, questioning Pimblett’s readiness for championship-level competition going forward. Among them was lightweight champion Ilia Topuria, who publicly weighed in, adding fuel to an already heated rivalry afterward.
“Little sausage, the only thing you had to do was beat a 38-year-old guy. You just lost the biggest paycheck of your life. You were going to get rich if you won. Justin, all I can say is congratulations… and I’d like to tell you to get ready, but you’re screwed no matter what,” wrote Ilia Topuria via X.
Little sausage, the only thing you had to do was beat a 38 year old guy. You just lost the biggest paycheck of your life. You were going to get rich if you won. Justin, all I can say is congratulations… and I’d like to tell you to get ready, but you’re screwed no matter what.
— Ilia Topuria (@Topuriailia) January 25, 2026
Pimblett was motivated to beat Gaethje and fight Topuria for the undisputed title, but it seems like it will have to wait. The ‘El Matador’ previously disrespected Gaethje as the easiest challenger, but it seems like this fight did change that dynamic.
Apart from Topuria, others, such as Arman Tsarukyan, also took this opportunity to mock Paddy Pimblett, given their rivalry. “That’s what happens when you’re gifted opportunities and pushed up the rankings artificially, a completely undeserved title shot for Paddy,” wrote Arman Tsarukyan via X.
That’s what happens when you’re gifted opportunities and pushed up the rankings artificially, a completely undeserved title shot for Paddy.
— Arman Tsarukyan UFC (@ArmanUfc) January 25, 2026
Congratulations to Justin. He showed real heart, and unlike others, he’ll step up and take the fight with me. Respect
Both Tsarukyan and Pimblett share a bitter rivalry, with the Scouser previously accusing the Armenian of privilege. Former lightweight champion Islam Makhachev also reacted, stating Pimblett’s massive hype ultimately proved underwhelming at UFC 324.
Despite the disappointment, Pimblett handled defeat with maturity, using the moment to speak openly about men’s mental health awareness. Nevertheless, fan attention has now shifted toward the highly anticipated title clash between Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje next.

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Justin Gaethje is eager to fight Ilia Topuria for the undisputed title
Justin Gaethje looked unstoppable against Paddy Pimblett, landing heavy shots repeatedly, though Pimblett survived, backing his Scouser toughness claim. The bout showcased classic Gaethje, ignoring cautious strategy, relentlessly moving forward, and embracing chaos to overwhelm his opponent completely.
However, many believe such recklessness could be costly versus a technical striker and devastating power puncher like Ilia Topuria. In a recent interview, the ‘Highlight’ talked about what he will be expecting in this upcoming undisputed title fight. “I just have to trust in the preparation, and trust in my coaches, and trust in my skills. I’m here for a reason. I hope it’s my destiny,” said Justin Gaethje via UFC 324 post-fight presser.
Justin Gaethje is ready for his title unification fight against Ilia Topuria after his win at #UFC324:
— MMA Fighting (@MMAFighting) January 25, 2026
"I just have to trust in the preparation, and trust in my coaches, and trust in my skills. I hope it's my destiny." pic.twitter.com/6kHxCTaqdU
According to Gaethje, he will fight Ilia Topuria on the White House main card in June for the undisputed title. He warned that if the Georgian-Spanish champion delayed his return, the promotion could strip him and crown Gaethje next.







