Joe Rogan, along with many fans, was amazed by Paddy Pimblett’s remarkable toughness as he endured a punishing performance while contending for the UFC lightweight interim title. Former Cage Warriors champion Pimblett was knocked down and cut several times by Justin Gaethje over a grueling five-round battle but ultimately fell short, with Gaethje securing a unanimous decision win.
Following the fight, Pimblett was taken to the hospital due to multiple eye pokes and the numerous times he was dropped—marking the first time he faced such punishment since his 2018 bid for another Cage Warriors title. While Gaethje assured he was “100 percent” fine in a backstage interview with Dana White, Kate Scott confirmed that Pimblett was rushed to receive immediate medical attention. White commented on Pimblett’s resilience, noting that despite taking heavy shots from a knockout artist like Gaethje, the fight’s damage may not necessarily shorten his career. He also pondered the toll Gaethje might face in his upcoming bout with Max Holloway.
During the post-fight analysis, Joe Rogan expressed surprise at how well Pimblett, a fighter known for his toughness, absorbed Gaethje’s powerful strikes. Rogan noted Gaethje’s uncharacteristic lack of tactical restraint, describing his approach as relentlessly aggressive from the opening bell, aiming to overwhelm Pimblett with heavy blows. He added that Pimblett’s jaw might deserve scientific examination due to his extraordinary ability to take so much punishment without going down.
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Fan Take: This dramatic showdown highlights the incredible heart and durability that make MMA so thrilling to watch. Pimblett’s performance, despite the loss, underscores the relentless spirit required at the highest level and could inspire deeper discussions about fighter safety and career longevity in the sport.
