UFC 324: Pimblett vs Gaethje - Expert Predictions and Analysis

The battle of generations, styles, and legacies at UFC 324 has the MMA world divided.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 3:58am

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting the intense action and energy of the Pimblett vs. Gaethje fight, with the fighters' movements and strikes deconstructed into abstract geometric shapes and forms.The highly anticipated UFC 324 main event between rising star Paddy Pimblett and veteran Justin Gaethje promises to be a clash of generations, styles, and legacies.Las Vegas Today

UFC 324 in Las Vegas will feature a highly anticipated lightweight title fight between rising star Paddy Pimblett and veteran Justin Gaethje. Pimblett, a 31-year-old from Liverpool, aims to become the city's first-ever UFC champion, but faces a tough challenge from the 37-year-old Gaethje, a former interim champion known for his relentless pressure and knockout power. Experts are split on who will emerge victorious in this clash of generations and fighting styles.

Why it matters

This fight has major implications for the UFC lightweight division, as the winner will likely earn a shot at the undisputed title. It also represents a battle of two very different approaches to the sport, with the young, grappling-focused Pimblett taking on the experienced, striking-dominant Gaethje. The outcome could shape the future of the division for years to come.

The details

Pimblett (20-3) is on a meteoric rise in the UFC, known for his creative grappling and submission skills. Gaethje (25-4), on the other hand, is a seasoned veteran with a reputation for his relentless pressure and knockout power. While many are backing Pimblett's momentum, others argue that Gaethje's experience and striking dominance could prove too much for the young upstart.

  • UFC 324 will take place on Saturday, January 25, 2026.
  • The main card, including the Pimblett vs. Gaethje fight, will start at 3:00 AM GMT on Sunday, January 26, 2026.

The players

Paddy Pimblett

A 31-year-old rising star from Liverpool, Pimblett is aiming to become the city's first-ever UFC champion and only the fourth Briton to claim an interim or undisputed title.

Justin Gaethje

A 37-year-old lightweight veteran and former interim champion, Gaethje is known for his relentless pressure and knockout power, which have made him a division staple for nearly a decade.

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What they’re saying

“Whether they win, lose, or draw, I hope they're happy with their performance and stay safe. It's a 50/50 fight.”

— Rose Namajunas, UFC flyweight and two-time strawweight champion

“Pimblett's going to win, easy. Gaethje doesn't know how to grapple, and Paddy knows that. Have you ever seen Gaethje submit someone? If you can submit someone, you'd do it.”

— Ilia Topuria, UFC lightweight contender

“Justin's always exciting, but I feel like it's Paddy's time. He's manifested this moment. It's going to be a banger, and I'm shocked Gaethje's a 3-1 underdog. It's closer than that, but Paddy has the tools to win.”

— Sean O'Malley, Former UFC bantamweight champion

“Paddy's locked in. The stars have aligned, and he's in fantastic shape. He's bringing another belt back to the UK.”

— Arnold Allen, UFC featherweight

“Paddy's young, hungry, and confident. He's leveled up every fight, just like I have. He'll get the job done.”

— Modestas Bukauskas, UFC light-heavyweight

What’s next

The winner of the Pimblett vs. Gaethje fight will likely earn a shot at the undisputed UFC lightweight title.

The takeaway

This highly anticipated matchup between the rising star Paddy Pimblett and the seasoned veteran Justin Gaethje has divided the MMA community. While Pimblett's momentum and grappling prowess have many experts backing him, Gaethje's experience and striking dominance could prove to be the deciding factor in this clash of generations and fighting styles.