TLDR
- Justin Gaethje disclosed a setback during training camp that impacted his last UFC fight performance
- The issue affected both his striking ability and conditioning during the bout
- Gaethje faces Paddy Pimblett for the interim lightweight title at UFC 324 on January 24
- The 37-year-old former champion is determined to overcome the problems and bounce back
- A victory would set up a title shot against current lightweight champion Ilia Topuria
Sources: TheBodyLock | VSIN | Yardbarker
Former interim lightweight champion Justin Gaethje has opened up about a setback that affected his performance in his most recent UFC fight. The 37-year-old fighter discussed the issue in a recent interview ahead of his upcoming bout at UFC 324.
Gaethje explained that problems arose during his training camp and continued to impact him during the fight itself. The setback affected both his striking ability and his conditioning, two areas where the former “BMF” champion typically excels.
Impact on Fight Performance
The issue hindered Gaethje’s preparation and execution during his last bout. He has been candid about how the problem prevented him from performing at his usual level inside the octagon.
Gaethje is now focused on overcoming the setback as he prepares to face Paddy Pimblett for the interim lightweight title this Saturday. The fight takes place at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on January 24.
The veteran fighter has made it clear that he was not at his best in his previous performance. He dismissed suggestions that recent opponents who defeated him faced him at full strength.
🔥 @Justin_Gaethje denies UFC 324 staph infection rumors
Speculation swirled about a mysterious neck injury, but Gaethje says the UFC 324 interim title picture is unaffected.
— Onchain Blog 🌐 (@OnchainNewsBlog) January 8, 2026
Looking Ahead to UFC 324
Gaethje enters UFC 324 as the underdog against the 29-year-old Pimblett, who is undefeated in UFC competition at 7-0. The former interim champion is determined to rebound and secure his second interim lightweight title.
The Arizona native has competed against elite opposition throughout his career. Since 2019, his only losses have come against top-tier fighters including Charles Oliveira, Khabib Nurmagomedov, and Max Holloway.
Gaethje has promised to force Pimblett into a wrestling match at UFC 324. Despite his strong wrestling background as a former Division I college wrestler, Gaethje rarely uses his grappling skills in fights, preferring to keep bouts standing.
The fighter is known for his aggressive, forward-pressing style and devastating striking power. His signature low leg kicks have become a trademark of his fighting approach, often setting up powerful strikes that finish opponents.
At 37 years old, Gaethje has indicated that a victory over Pimblett would transition him into a championship fight against current lightweight title holder Ilia Topuria. This makes the UFC 324 bout crucial for his career trajectory.
Pimblett, a second-degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu from Liverpool, England, will attempt to use his grappling skills to neutralize Gaethje’s striking advantage. The Englishman has become one of the UFC’s most popular fighters despite facing criticism about the strength of his competition.
UFC 324 marks the promotion’s debut on Paramount+, ending the pay-per-view era as all fights will be included with a streaming subscription. The event features 13 scheduled bouts at the T-Mobile Arena.
Gaethje remains optimistic about his chances despite the betting odds favoring his younger opponent. The former champion believes he has addressed the issues that plagued his last performance and is ready to compete for championship gold once again.
