UFC 324 concluded with Justin Gaethje defeating Paddy Pimblett to become the new interim lightweight champion, marking the start of the UFC’s Paramount Era, while discussions centered around the event’s structure, Gaethje’s performance, and the future prospects of other fighters like Sean O’Malley and Paddy Pimblett.
UFC 324 has wrapped up, and there’s a new interim lightweight champ in town. Justin Gaethje defied the odds, defeating Paddy Pimblett to secure his second interim title. This marks the beginning of the UFC’s Paramount Era. So, how did this card play out, and what was the vibe of this new era?
Mike Heck, Alexander K. Lee, Damon Martin, and Jed Meshew gathered to discuss.
1. How was the start of the UFC on Paramount era?
Heck described the main card as an oddly structured sandwich. It had some low-cost cold cuts with expensive bread. You’d eat it all, but the bread—Gaethje vs. Pimblett and Silva vs. Allen—was the standout.
Martin noted the main event delivered, but the rest of the card was lackluster. Get ready for more commercials, though, as the price for ditching the $79.99 pay-per-view. The stream, however, was flawless, a rarity compared to ESPN.
Meshew gave it a low-end B. The card seemed designed to attract new viewers with action-packed fights but fell short in execution. The pacing was off, ads were frequent, and there was some weirdness. Yet, the main event was a banger, and that’s what counts.
2. What’s your big takeaway from Justin Gaethje vs. Paddy Pimblett?
Heck: Gaethje proved everyone wrong. His performance was legendary, deserving every accolade. However, it wasn’t his best, and a fight with Ilia Topuria might be tough. But Gaethje spoiled the UFC’s plans.
Heck also admitted he underestimated Pimblett. He didn’t expect him to be a title contender or even ranked. Despite a poor game plan, Pimblett fought hard, took a beating, and kept going. He’s reached his ceiling, but rankings and titles might not matter for him.
Lee: Pimblett is a legit contender. The fight was fun, and Pimblett proved doubters wrong. He took punches from a hard hitter and survived. At 31, he still has room to grow, and close losses could turn into wins.
Martin: Fast-tracking to a title isn’t always wise. Pimblett’s path wasn’t filled with top competition. He was favored against Gaethje but was outclassed. Maybe this loss will ground him, and he’ll work his way back up.
Meshew: Gaethje is underrated. He’s the most exciting fighter ever but often underestimated. He’s done everything except win an undisputed title. His career is Hall of Fame-worthy, and we’re lucky to witness it.
3. Did Sean O’Malley do enough against Song Yadong to earn a title shot?
Heck: In a fair world, no. The UFC will likely push for it, but O’Malley’s recent losses make it ridiculous. He has fans and a win over the champion, but giving him a shot over Merab Dvalishvili isn’t right.
Lee: O’Malley just needed to win, and he did. It wasn’t his best performance, but winning was key. Now, it’s up to the UFC and Petr Yan.
Martin: Based on the performance? No. But he might get a title shot anyway. Rankings don’t matter in UFC matchmaking. O’Malley is a star at 135 pounds, and that matters. He didn’t dazzle against Song but is still in the title conversation.
Meshew: No, he didn’t. O’Malley was set up to rematch Yan, but his win over Song lacked impact. He might face Umar Nurmagomedov next, in a fight reminiscent of McGregor vs. Khabib.
4. Who stole the show at UFC 324?
Heck: Nikita Krylov. He dominated Modestas Bukauskas, proving doubters wrong. Krylov was in must-win territory and delivered one of his best performances.
Lee: Ateba Gautier. His fight wasn’t flashy, but it was essential for his growth. He showed potential and room for improvement.
Martin: Justin Gaethje. He was close to retirement but turned back the clock to beat Pimblett. Gaethje delivered a classic performance, proving he’s still “The Highlight.”
Meshew: Jean Silva. He toned down his antics against Arnold Allen but still delivered an impressive performance.
5. Who was the biggest loser at UFC 324?
Heck: Umar Nurmagomedov. Despite winning, he didn’t make a statement against an aging Deiveson Figueiredo. The UFC might slow down his rise.
Lee: Alex Perez. Missing weight cost him financially. His knockout win didn’t earn bonuses, impacting his earnings.
Martin: Paddy Pimblett. He was expected to win but was humbled by Gaethje. His story isn’t over, but a showdown with Ilia Topuria seems unlikely now.
Meshew: Rose Namajunas. Her title dreams faded. Moving up to 125 pounds hasn’t brought out her best, leaving her as an also-ran in the division.