The build-up to UFC 324 has reached full intensity with one of the most respected voices in modern MMA, Alexander Volkanovski, weighing in on the highly anticipated interim lightweight title fight between Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett.
The former two-time featherweight champion has never been shy about giving honest assessments, and this time, he offered a detailed breakdown of how he sees the fight playing out on Saturday night at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
The event marks a major moment for the UFC as the promotion moves forward with an interim championship.
Undisputed lightweight king Ilia Topuria announced in November that he would be taking a break from competition to deal with personal matters.
With the title temporarily dormant, the UFC decided to crown an interim champion, and Gaethje vs. Pimblett provides a compelling matchup between two fighters who have quickly risen to the forefront of the division.
While Gaethje enters the fight as the more experienced, battle-tested veteran and former interim champion, Pimblett arrives with momentum, improved performances, and a growing fanbase eager to see him climb to the top. Volkanovski’s prediction has added even more intrigue to this already electric main event.
Below is the full breakdown of the matchup, along with Volkanovski’s reasoning for siding with one fighter over the other.
A High-Stakes Interim Lightweight Title Fight
The UFC 324 main event is not just another matchup; it’s a meeting of two fighters whose careers have built toward this moment in very different ways.
Justin Gaethje: The Proven Warrior
Justin Gaethje has long been known as one of the most dangerous lightweights on the planet.
His explosive striking, relentless pressure, and willingness to engage in wild exchanges have made him both a fan favorite and a constant threat to anyone in the division.
Over the years, Gaethje has built a reputation for breaking opponents with pace and punishment, and he enters this bout with every intention of stopping Pimblett’s rise.
Paddy Pimblett: The Surging Contender
Paddy Pimblett, who began his UFC career with strong performances and a massive wave of support from fans, has turned early hype into a real opportunity.
While some doubted whether he could reach elite status, Pimblett has responded with improved discipline, enhanced fight IQ, and sharper performances.
Ranked No. 5 going into the event, he now finds himself on the doorstep of championship contention.
With both fighters eager to prove their place in the division, the tension surrounding the matchup has only grown. Adding to the excitement is Volkanovski’s recent analysis, which surprised many fans.
Volkanovski Reflects on Underestimating Pimblett in the Past
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Alexander Volkanovski opened up with a surprising admission:
“I’ve picked against Paddy Pimblett a few times, right? I’m going to stop doing that.”
The Australian superstar explained that Pimblett has repeatedly proved him wrong, especially in his recent fights.
According to Volkanovski, Pimblett has demonstrated a new level of maturity and intelligence inside the Octagon.
He highlighted key improvements that have caught his attention:
- Better strategy
- Sharper footwork
- Stronger distance management
- Improved defensive awareness
- More calculated decision-making under pressure
Volkanovski emphasized that Pimblett’s understanding of danger and his ability to choose the correct option in tough situations have become defining elements of his game.
These improvements, he believes, are exactly what Pimblett needs to bring into the cage against a fighter as explosive as Gaethje.
Volkanovski Praises Pimblett’s Growth
Volkanovski wasn’t just complimentary, he was specific. He pointed out that Pimblett’s last few fights have shown a fighter who is not only talented but also evolving with each appearance.
According to Volkanovski, Pimblett has transitioned from a raw, unpredictable competitor to someone who uses a clear strategy, reads opponents more effectively, and applies a smart approach to controlling danger.
This, he says, will be the key factor when dealing with Gaethje’s relentless pressure and power.
Volkanovski said:
“In his last couple of fights I’ve seen great strategy, footwork, distance management, good understanding of danger, and having the right options around dealing with that.”
For Volkanovski, these technical and tactical upgrades are what make Pimblett a genuine threat, not just hype or fan support.
The Challenge of Gaethje’s Durability
Despite his praise for Pimblett, Volkanovski made it clear that the matchup is far from simple.
He highlighted one major concern:
“This is tough. This is a very tough one because Gaethje… I feel like I can’t see Paddy finishing Gaethje.”
Gaethje has a reputation for being incredibly difficult to put away. Even in his most chaotic fights, he has shown an ability to absorb heavy shots and keep moving forward.
While he has been stopped by top names in the past, the sheer toughness he brings into every fight makes him a challenge for anyone aiming for a finish.
Volkanovski believes the fight is likely to go all five rounds, and this is where his main hesitation lies.
Can Pimblett Maintain His Game Plan for 25 Minutes?
The big question for Volkanovski is whether Pimblett can sustain his improved strategy and defensive awareness over five championship rounds. He said:
“I feel like it’s going the five rounds. Can he do this for five rounds? This is what’s tough.”
From Volkanovski’s perspective, Pimblett has shown the tools, but the championship round cardio test is something that only fighting can answer.
Pimblett and Gaethje Give Their Own Predictions
Both fighters, naturally, have their own views on how the fight will unfold.
Pimblett Predicts a Third-Round Finish
Pimblett has confidently stated that the fight will not last beyond the third round. Known for his self-belief and aggressive grappling style, he has promised to push the pace early and look for openings to capitalize on mistakes.
Gaethje Looks to “Teach The Baddy a Lesson”
Gaethje, never one to back down from a challenge, has stated that he is ready to humble Pimblett.
He believes his experience and proven track record against top-level competition will be the difference, and that Pimblett has not yet faced someone with his level of power and pressure.
With both fighters confident in vastly different outcomes, the dynamic heading into UFC 324 is even more compelling.
Volkanovski Makes His Final Prediction
Despite acknowledging the risks, Volkanovski ultimately sided with Pimblett.
He stated:
“I’m going to go with Paddy. I’m going to go with Paddy because like I said, I’m tired of picking against him.”
Volkanovski believes Pimblett can execute his game plan well enough to outpoint Gaethje over five rounds.
He even mentioned the possibility of a submission, though he still sees a decision as the most likely outcome.
His official prediction:
Paddy Pimblett wins by decision.
He added:
“Maybe he could get a submission. Could happen. Decision win I’ll say. Paddy Pimblett for the win.”
For a fighter known for his analytical accuracy and high fight IQ, Volkanovski’s endorsement carries weight.
Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see if his read on Pimblett’s growth is proven right once again.
Why Volkanovski’s Prediction Matters
Alexander Volkanovski is widely regarded as one of the smartest fighters in the sport. His understanding of timing, strategy, and adaptation is what made him a dominant champion. When he speaks, fighters listen, and fans take notice.
His prediction does not come from hype or favoritism. It comes from technical observation. Volkanovski is honest enough to admit when he has been wrong, and he believes Pimblett has shown enough improvement to earn his pick this time.
Final Thoughts: A Fight That Could Redefine the Lightweight Division
UFC 324’s main event will reveal a lot about the future of the lightweight division.
- If Justin Gaethje wins, it reaffirms his position as one of the division’s most dangerous and enduring forces.
- If Paddy Pimblett wins, it signals the arrival of a new contender capable of carrying the weight of a title opportunity.
And with Ilia Topuria currently sidelined, the interim belt represents much more than temporary status; it may shape the next major storyline when the division unifies later in the year.
Volkanovski’s prediction has added another layer of drama, and fans will soon find out whether his trust in Pimblett’s evolution is justified.