Justin Gaethje became the first two-time interim UFC champion after edging past Paddy Pimblett in an all-time UFC classic in Las Vegas.
Justin Gaethje became the first ever two-time UFC interim champion after edging past Paddy Pimblett in an all-time UFC classic.
Many feared UFC 324 would mark a real passing of the torch moment – with the old guard slowly making way for the fresh, upcoming talent. Ever since his promotional debut, Gaethje has continued to be involved in many gruelling wars, and there were a few who thought it would all catch up to him on Saturday night.
But the ‘Highlight’ used his championship experience – having twice failed at undisputed glory – to his advantage, showcasing that his Liverpool rival was rather rash in skipping the queue ahead of some more worthy adversaries.
The 37-year-old was eager to show exactly why he is one of the most feared fighters on the planets. And from the off, the American well and truly had the bit between his teeth before becoming the UFC’s first ever two-time interim champion and earning himself yet another crack at the coveted undisputed prize.
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In recent times, we have seen Gaethje remain cool, calm and collected en route to getting the job done. However, much to the surprise of many, her reverted to his old way of swinging for the bleachers from the get-go. The American is known for his brutal leg kicks, destroying opponents with his brutal kicks, but it was Pimblett who initiated the kicks – catching the ‘Highlight’ off guard.
It was evident the pair wanted to put on a show, as they were trading heavy shots in the pocket. Pimblett was left fighting for his life after being sent to the canvas midway through the first after Gaethje detonated a bomb of a right hand. But the Liverpool native showed great heart and refused to quit despite eating hard shots on the canvas.
After allowing Pimblett back on his feet, it seemed to be a mistake from Gaethje – who ate some brutal uppercuts. But there was just no quit in both men, as they refused to wilt under pressure. Early in the second, some swelling started to appear under the right eye of Pimblett.
Nevertheless, the Liverpudlian bit down on his gumshield, and continued to out-kick the kicking specialist. Gaethje, as ever, refused to show any sign of appearing crestfallen. The former ‘BMF’ champion came pressing yet again and managed to drop his rival again. Pimblett, breathing heavy, somehow heard the bell.
There was some slight controversy, though, after slow motion replays spotted Gaethje poking his rival for a second time. Evidently, after two rounds, there was panic in the Pimblett corner as his long-time head coaches demanded the Scouse scrapper take the fight to the canvas.
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