When it comes to the highly anticipated showdown between Paddy Pimblett and Justin Gaethje at UFC 324, the stakes couldn't be higher. This Saturday in Las Vegas, Pimblett is aiming to carve his name into history by potentially becoming the first UFC champion from Liverpool. At just 31 years old, he stands on the brink of achieving this remarkable milestone, which would also make him only the fourth fighter from Britain to claim either an interim or undisputed UFC title.
However, standing in his way is the formidable Gaethje, a seasoned veteran of the lightweight division. At 37 years old, he has spent the past eight years establishing himself as a top contender and is a former interim champion himself. The question looms large: Can Pimblett secure a memorable victory, or will Gaethje put a stop to his rising momentum?
For fans who want to catch every moment of this thrilling encounter, the action kicks off at 03:00 GMT on Sunday, January 25, available on the BBC Sport website and app.
In anticipation of the fight, BBC Sport reached out to various figures in the mixed martial arts community for their insights and predictions.
Rose Namajunas - Two-time strawweight champion and current flyweight contender: "Regardless of the outcome, I hope both fighters can walk away feeling proud of their performance while staying safe. It's truly a toss-up fight."
Prediction: Neutral.
Ilia Topuria - Current UFC lightweight champion: "I genuinely believe that Paddy will win without much trouble. Gaethje lacks grappling skills, and that’s something Paddy is well aware of. Have you ever seen Gaethje submit anyone? If he could, he would have done it by now."
Prediction: Pimblett.
Sean O'Malley - Former bantamweight champion: "I really enjoy watching Justin; he's consistently entertaining. However, I feel that this is Paddy's moment to shine. He has visually manifested this opportunity. No matter what, we are in for an electrifying fight. It’s surprising to see Gaethje as a 3-1 underdog; I think the odds are closer than that. Nevertheless, Paddy has numerous strategies to secure a win."
Prediction: Pimblett.
Arnold Allen - UFC featherweight contender: "I believe Paddy will come out on top. He seems focused, the stars are aligning for him, and his physical condition is impressive. I expect him to return home with another title for the UK."
Prediction: Pimblett.
Luke Riley - UFC featherweight fighter: "I predict that Paddy will either secure a ground-and-pound victory in the third or fourth round or achieve a knockout."
Prediction: Pimblett.
Modestas Bukauskas - UFC light-heavyweight competitor: "Paddy is poised to clinch the win. I see this as a pivotal moment in his career. He’s young, driven, and confident in his abilities—similar to how I feel about my own progression. Each fight has shown him evolving, and I anticipate he’ll emerge victorious."
Prediction: Pimblett.
Alexander Volkanovski - UFC featherweight champion: "There have been moments when I thought Paddy was facing significant challenges, yet he navigated through them successfully. His last fight demonstrated his ability to adhere to a game plan, something he'll need against Gaethje. Thus, I'm backing Paddy."
Prediction: Pimblett.
Waldo Cortes-Acosta - UFC heavyweight: "I have a soft spot for both Paddy and Gaethje. I expect an exciting contest between these two fighters."
Prediction: Neutral.
Michael Bisping - First British UFC champion: "Justin has a unique style that leaves opportunities open for maneuvers like underhooks or foot sweeps, which could lead to submissions. He's quite inventive in his approach. I predict that Paddy Pimblett will win this fight via submission and become the interim champion."
Prediction: Pimblett.
As we await the clash between Gaethje and Pimblett, one may wonder how their records stack up against each other. What do you think? Who will emerge victorious in this battle of wills? Share your thoughts in the comments!
