Justin Gaethje rules out Paddy Pimblett rematch after UFC title win

UFC lightweight champion Justin Gaethje shut the door on a fast Paddy Pimblett rematch on Wednesday, just weeks after dethroning Ilia Topuria at UFC 329 on 18 June. Gaethje beat Pimblett by unanimous decision in an interim title fight on 20 January, and he isn’t eager to face him again so soon.

What happened in their first fight?

Pimblett entered their January clash as a heavy underdog, but Gaethje battered him on the feet before taking a clear decision. The fight became a potential Fight of the Year candidate, with both men going five grueling rounds. Gaethje’s performance also lit a fire under Pimblett, who admitted he struggled after the loss but later cited Gaethje’s June win over Topuria as the spark that reignited his career.

Why Gaethje isn’t rushing back to Pimblett

Gaethje told Pat McAfee he isn’t destined to fight Pimblett again anytime soon. “Destined for each other to fight again? No,” he said. Gaethje respects Pimblett’s kind words from fight week and the respect Pimblett showed by watching Gaethje’s Topuria performance. Still, six months after beating Pimblett once already, Gaethje isn’t signing up for a quick rematch.

How Gaethje’s win over Topuria changed perceptions

Gaethje’s upset victory over Topuria on 18 June resonated far beyond the cage. He pointed to Rafael Fiziev-who lost twice to Gaethje but said the wins rejuvenated him-as one example. Even heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua praised the brutal honesty of MMA, crediting Gaethje’s fights for reminding athletes of the sport’s raw danger. “It’s pretty cool across the board,” Gaethje said. “All athletes respect our sport because it’s so humbling, so primal.”

When will Gaethje fight again?

Gaethje previously hinted at retirement but now expects to return in 2027. His next steps hinge on matchmaking, but a Pimblett rematch isn’t in the cards for now. Gaethje’s focus stays on his own career path after knocking off Topuria and securing the UFC lightweight strap.