Chandler predicts fight between Pimblett and Gaethje

Michael Chandler has predicted the winner of the fight between Paddy Pimblett and Justin Gaethje.

Following UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria’s break from the sport due to personal reasons, UFC CEO Dana White announced the fight between Pimblett and Gaethje for the interim lightweight title, which will take place on January 24.

The fight in the main event of UFC 324 is important for both the fighters, as the winner will take on Topuria for undisputed gold next.

Chandler, who was defeated by Pimblett at UFC 314 in April 2025, has said that Gaethje is a superior fighter, but the Liverpool-born is also better than people think.

“More skilled, more experienced…overall, the better fighter is Justin Gaethje,” Chandler said.

“That said, I’ve gone on record saying that Paddy Pimblett is better than a lot of people think he is. Because of his haircut, the way he talks, and his strength of schedule, people don’t give him much credit.”

Chandler predicted Gaethje as the winner and added that when he was beaten by Pimblett in April, he was not surprised because he knew the British fighter was capable.

“When I fought him in April in Miami, I’m not going to say I was surprised, because I was expecting the best version of Paddy, but he’s better than many people give him credit for. He’s got a long reach, good kicks, and he’s pretty patient and composed in there,” he added.

“That said, Gaethje is a whole different animal. So if I had to bet (which I can’t), but if I had to lean one way, I’d go with Justin Gaethje as interim champion. And then he beats Ilia Topuria later on this year.”