Paddy Pimblett was taken straight to hospital for checks after suffering a heavy points defeat to Justin Gaethje at UFC 324 on Saturday night.
The Liverpool fighter went into the bout full of confidence after his knockout win over Michael Chandler earlier this year and was competing for the interim title. A future undisputed title fight was also on the line, adding to the significance of the contest.
From the opening round, Gaethje controlled the action. The American pressed forward aggressively and came close to ending the fight in the first round, forcing Pimblett back against the cage before dropping him to the canvas. The pressure continued in the second round, where Gaethje again put Pimblett down as the pace remained high.
As the fight went on, the damage became clear. Pimblett’s right eye swelled badly and he suffered visible facial injuries, with blood flowing as the rounds progressed. Despite the punishment, the 31-year-old showed resilience and made it to the final bell after a demanding five-round contest.
Gaethje was awarded the victory on points, but both fighters left the Octagon with clear signs of the battle they had endured. Pimblett remained for his post-fight interview before being sent to hospital for further assessment.
UFC president Dana White later confirmed that Pimblett had been taken for precautionary checks, while Gaethje was deemed fit despite also taking damage during the fight.
White praised Pimblett’s toughness, noting that he continued to follow his game plan despite being knocked down more than once. He described the contest as a hard-fought war and paid respect to both fighters for their performances.
Speaking after the fight, Pimblett accepted the result and showed respect to his opponent. He admitted his disappointment at missing out on the title but praised Gaethje’s quality, describing him as a fighter he had watched and admired growing up. Pimblett also made it clear he intends to return, insisting fans have not seen the last of him.
The focus now turns to Pimblett’s recovery, while Gaethje is expected to move closer to a future title unification bout later in the year.
