Many fans believe that each fighter holds a specific advantage in the UFC 324 main event.
Justin Gaethje has hinted at retirement if he fails to capture the title but has ambitious plans for his comeback next month. To claim the interim lightweight title on January 24th, he must halt the winning streak of top contender Paddy Pimblett.
Gaethje’s former opponent thinks Pimblett can capitalize on certain weaknesses in “Highlights.” The former BMF champion recently shared his perspective on predictions that “The Buddy” could win if he executes his grappling strategy effectively.
Justin Gaethje thinks Paddy Pimblett must injure his leg to successfully grapple him. While Gaethje has more knockout losses than submission defeats, many expect him to dominate in striking against Pimblett. Despite this, Pimblett believes he can knock out Gaethje and aims to catch people off guard when he isn’t solely focused on grappling.
In a recent interview with Submission Radio, “The Highlight” acknowledged why the grappling advantage is often emphasized, noting his close losses in previous title fights but also disputing the narrative. He cited the challenges faced against elite grapplers like Charles Oliveira and Khabib Nurmagomedov but insisted he excels at keeping opponents off him unless they can first damage his leg through strikes.
Oliveira noted Pimblett’s grappling skills at close range could help the Brit in the UFC 324 main event, but Gaethje countered that Pimblett would need to weaken his leg first to succeed at takedowns. Gaethje said, “I don’t want to grapple, but I can handle it. My defense against takedowns is top-notch, so he’ll have to weaken me with punches, kicks, and knees first.”
Regarding Pimblett’s confidence, Gaethje sees it as a critical element of his opponent’s current success. While critics and supporters differ on Pimblett’s technical striking skills, Gaethje believes that to win, he must disrupt Pimblett’s aggression and confidence, which make him so dangerous.
“Technically, he might not be there, but his aggression and persistence are serious factors when it comes to striking. I’ll have to break his momentum and confidence because that’s why he’s effective right now,” Gaethje explained.
Fan Take: This matchup is a thrilling clash of styles and mindsets that could redefine the lightweight division. The outcome will not only impact the fighters’ careers but also highlight the evolving dynamics between striking and grappling in modern MMA.
