Morning Report: Paddy Pimblett claims ‘eye gouges’ and ‘low blows’ contributed to loss to Justin Gaethje
Paddy Pimblett is reframing his January loss to Justin Gaethje in a more positive light following Gaethje's dominant run to the undisputed UFC lightweight title. Gaethje defeated Pimblett by unanimous decision in an interim title fight at UFC 324, then went on to capture gold by stopping the previously unbeaten Ilia Topuria at the end of Round 4 at UFC White House—a shocking upset that raised the stakes across the entire lightweight division.
Pimblett acknowledged that watching Gaethje's championship victory actually motivated him rather than discouraged him. The Liverpool fighter pointed out that he pushed the pace for all five rounds without quitting and believes he won rounds 3 and 5, losing 3–2 on one judge's scorecard. However, Pimblett contends the fight was marred by fouls—eye gouges, low blows, and what he called "faking low blows"—suggesting the outcome might have differed under cleaner circumstances.
Now Pimblett's path to a rematch runs through Benoit Saint Denis at UFC 329 on July 11 in Las Vegas. Saint Denis has rebounded from a two-fight slump with four consecutive wins, all by knockout or submission, using a relentless grappling style. Pimblett expressed confidence he can handle Saint Denis's wrestling, suggesting the Frenchman may hesitate to take him down out of fear of a submission loss.
A win over Saint Denis would position Pimblett among the lightweight contenders, though he doesn't assume it guarantees a title shot. Arman Tsarukyan is widely considered next in line, and Charles Oliveira—whom Gaethje has mentioned wanting to face again—remains in the mix. Pimblett acknowledged he needs more than a one-fight winning streak to demand a rematch with the newly crowned champion.
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