Justin Gaethje defeats Paddy Pimblett on points in lightweight interim title bout at UFC 324 – as beaten Brit is rushed to hospital

Paddy Pimblett’s quest to win the UFC lightweight interim title fell short after he was beaten on points by Justin Gaethje at UFC 324 on Saturday night.

Pimblett, who suffered a bloody face, lost via unanimous decision after five action-packed rounds that saw both fights throwing shots at the final bell.

It was a fine performance from Gaethje as the 37-year-old defied his age to beat his British opponent, who is younger by six years, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

For his win, Gaethje will now face absent champion Ilia Topuria next when he returns from a personal hiatus.

‘Paddy is right, Scousers do not get knocked out,’ the victorious American said.

‘My coach was definitely upset at me after the first round, but I just love this so much, it’s really hard to control myself sometimes.

‘I knew I had to put him on his back foot, he is very dangerous and has great timing. I had to steal his momentum and confidence.’

For Pimblett, who was later sent to hospital, he was humble in defeat – before sharing a more important message about mental health.

‘I wanted to be walking away with that belt, I know how tough I am and I don’t need to prove that to anyone,’ Pimblett said.

‘I think 48-47 was a fair scorecard, I won’t lie, he hit me with a body shot in the first round and it got me. I thought I was winning the round up to that point.

‘You live and you learn. I’m 31, I will be back better.

“In a few of my post-fight interviews before, I’ve mentioned men killing themselves. Two lads who I know have killed themselves over the last few months.

‘Men, speak up, don’t bottle your feelings up.’