Paddy Pimblett Breaks Silence After First UFC Defeat
British mixed martial arts sensation Paddy Pimblett has released his first public statement since suffering his maiden UFC defeat against Justin Gaethje this past weekend. The highly anticipated lightweight clash at UFC 324 in Las Vegas saw Pimblett's impressive seven-fight unbeaten run within the promotion come to an abrupt halt via judges' decision.
Championship Ambitions Remain Unshaken
Despite the setback, the 31-year-old Liverpudlian remains steadfast in his pursuit of championship glory. "Hope everyone enjoyed my fight just as much as I did," Pimblett posted on Instagram. "No excuses the better man won on the night. Justin Gaethje, congratulations brother it was an honor to share the cage with such a legend."
The defeat represents a significant moment in Pimblett's otherwise remarkable ascent through the UFC rankings since his promotional debut in 2021. Victory against Gaethje would have positioned him favorably for a potential title shot against undisputed champion Ilia Topuria.
A Battle of Resilience and Recovery
The contest proved challenging from the outset, with Gaethje knocking Pimblett down twice during the opening two rounds. Despite demonstrating considerable resilience and showing flashes of his trademark offensive prowess, Pimblett ultimately fell short on the scorecards.
Following immediate hospital evaluation after the bout, Pimblett was quickly released and even attended his Las Vegas afterparty, where he was reportedly spotted sporting visible facial swelling around both eyes. His wife Laura shared her support on social media, posting: "Forever proud of you. Love you so so much."
Looking Toward Future Challenges
In his statement, Pimblett expressed gratitude toward supporters while looking ahead: "Hopefully we can run it back for the undisputed because I still know it's in my destiny to win that gold! UFC thank you for the opportunity. You's all know I'll be back for that belt in the near future."
While Pimblett has suggested a relatively quick return to action, sources indicate the lightweight contender is likely to take a brief break before mapping his next move. Potential future opponents include Dan Hooker, with whom Pimblett has exchanged verbal barbs in recent weeks, creating natural narrative tension for a future Octagon encounter.
UFC Schedule Update
Looking ahead in the UFC calendar, featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski defends his title against Diego Lopes on Saturday 31 January at Sydney's Qudos Bank Arena. The event schedule is as follows:
- Early preliminary card: Approximately 10pm GMT Saturday
- Main preliminary bouts: Midnight GMT Sunday
- Main card: 2am GMT Sunday
- Main event walkouts: Approximately 4am GMT Sunday
All timings remain subject to change based on undercard bout durations. UK viewers can watch the main card on TNT Sports, with early and regular prelims available on UFC Fight Pass. US audiences can access both main card and regular prelims via Paramount+.
