UFC legend backs Paddy Pimblett to defeat Justin Gaethje at UFC 324

UFC legend Israel Adesanya has backed Paddy Pimblett to defeat Justin Gaethje at UFC 324 tonight.

In the main event of UFC 324 this evening, Paddy Pimblett will go head to head with Justin Gaethje for the UFC interim lightweight championship. It’s easily the biggest fight of Paddy’s career, and while the same can’t be said for Justin, it certainly feels significant – especially given that he’s heavily hinted at the possibility of retirement.

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When it comes to Pimblett, there are certainly expectations on his shoulders. He is the favorite to win, he’s the younger man, and he has more momentum behind him. ‘The Baddy’ has been gradually increasing the trash talk heading into this fight, but above all, this is just a really interesting clash of styles, and it’ll be fascinating to see how the contest plays out.

In a recent video, Israel Adesanya became the latest fighter to back Pimblett to get the better of Gaethje.

Adesanya’s view on Pimblett vs Gaethje

“I think this is Paddy’s biggest challenge yet,” Adesanya said on his YouTube channel. “Perfect opponent, perfect fight for them – you know, old dog-new dog.”

“Gaethje has to also be careful because Paddy hits hard, but Gaethje can eat them,” Adesanya said. “Look, there’s a reason Paddy is the favorite in this fight. I’m just going to follow the script. Just smart money. I say Paddy in this fight. I just think it’s going to be five rounds.

“Well, Gaethje can go five rounds, we know. Paddy said people haven’t seen him in deep waters and he says that’s where he comes alive, so I want to see it. Show them who you are.

“He’s right: This is his first interim title shot, just like mine. People thought I was going to drown, and I showed them that’s where I come alive. So I believe it. I want to see it. But again, there’s only one man who can make it an early night for Paddy, and that’s Gaethje.”

“As much as I want to lean toward Gaethje because we’re in the same position, I’m just going to stick with the script in this fight and I’m going to go with Paddy Pimblett by decision – or submission,” Adesanya said. “He likes to jump on people’s backs. I think submission.”

Quotes via MMA Junkie

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