Paddy Pimblett steps into the spotlight this weekend in Las Vegas for the most significant bout of his career, taking on Justin Gaethje for the UFC interim lightweight title. UFC president Dana White has warned fans not to overlook the Liverpudlian, stressing that Pimblett “always figures out a way to win” — particularly when entering fights as the underdog.

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Gaethje, ranked fourth in the division, is described as an experienced former champion and perennial top contender, while Pimblett sits fifth, undefeated since joining the UFC in 2021. With champion Ilia Topuria already signalling his intention to fight the winner later this year, Saturday’s clash carries genuine title implications.

White highlighted the stylistic intrigue of the matchup, noting that Gaethje has never been in a dull fight, while Pimblett continues to exceed expectations. Despite often being written off, the 31-year-old has built a perfect 7–0 UFC record, most recently stopping Michael Chandler in the third round at UFC 314, widely seen as the standout win of his career.

Pimblett remains characteristically confident. “I see me finishing him,” he said this week. “I’ve got a funny feeling I’m going to knock him out — people laugh, but I believe it.” He also believes his submission game could prove decisive if the bout hits the canvas.

Former champion Michael Bisping outlined the tactical battle. He praised Pimblett’s grappling, calling his submission ability “second to none”, but warned that reckless exchanges could favour Gaethje. For the American, Bisping believes the blueprint is clear: cut off the cage, pressure forward and unleash combinations.

Weigh-In Drama Adds Tension

Friday’s official weigh-ins added further intrigue. Pimblett was first on the scales, weighing 154lbs, and casually described the cut as “easy work”. Gaethje was last to weigh in, hitting 155lbs, confirming the interim belt will be on the line.

However, the ceremony was overshadowed by dramatic incidents. Cameron Smotherman collapsed on stage after making weight, leading to the cancellation of his bout, while Alex Perez and Deiveson Figueiredo both missed weight, forfeiting 25% of their purses.

O’Malley vs Song Set for ‘Fireworks’

The co-main event sees Sean O’Malley face Song Yadong in a bantamweight showdown that White described as “fireworks”. Both fighters are known for their striking and knockout power, making it one of the most anticipated clashes on the card beyond the main event.

Strong British Presence on the Card

British interest extends well beyond Pimblett. Arnold Allen competes in the featherweight division against Jean Silva, aiming to reassert himself among the elite, while Modestas Bukauskas, the Lithuanian-born Briton, looks to extend his four-fight winning streak in the light-heavyweight ranks.

With UFC 324 set to unfold in the early hours of Sunday morning in the UK, Pimblett stands on the brink of superstardom. Victory over Gaethje would not only secure interim gold but also confirm that the self-styled “Baddy” is no longer just a cult hero — he is a genuine force in the lightweight title picture.