Former champion makes bold prediction for UFC 324 main event: 'He's going to knock him out'

Justin gaethje e Paddy Pimblett face each other in UFC 324. Photo: SUPER FIGHTS montage.

Even in retirement, Dustin poirier He continues to observe the progress of the Ultimate lightweight division (up to 70,3 kg). In this context, the former fighter spoke about the interim title fight between Justin gaethje e Paddy Pimblett No. UFC 324, scheduled for next Saturday (24). He didn't sit on the fence when pointing out a favorite for the confrontation during the interview with reporter Ariel Helwani last Monday (19), on the program 'The Ariel Helwani Show', on YouTube.

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In discussing the matchup, Poirier, who also won the interim title in the division, said he doubted Pimblett's ability to remain defensively responsible throughout the fight and withstand Gaethje's powerful strikes, given his long and distinguished knockout career.

“I think Justin will knock him out. Gaethje has been in 25-minute fights before. He’s been in these intense battles before. I think Paddy will have a hard time stopping him on his feet, and I don’t think Paddy will be able to take him down, so he’ll have to fight him. Unless Paddy can maintain discipline for 25 minutes, keep his distance and choose his strikes well, Justin is a stronger striker and will put himself in danger to land one of those blows. It’s difficult to stay away for 25 minutes,” said Diamante, who has shared the octagon with Gaethje on two occasions.

Wow — Dustin poirier reveals he'll be betting on Justin gaethje to stop Paddy Pimblett at UFC 324.

"I just think Justin has been in those 25-minute fights. He's been in dogfights before. I think Paddy's gonna have a tough time stopping him on the feet, and I don't think Paddy's... pic.twitter.com/3dQWTbYtqf

- Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) January 19, 2026

The winner of the UFC 324 title will unify the titles with Ilia Topuria.

Ilia Topuria is a former featherweight champion. Photo: Reproduction Instagram/UFC Europe

PUBLICITY:

Beyond the opportunity to become champion of the most populous weight class in MMA, the winner of the fight will unify the title with... Ilia Topuria, the reigning champion. The Georgian/Spanish fighter is currently away from the octagon indefinitely to resolve bureaucratic issues related to his divorce from the mother of his children, Giorgina Badell.