Paddy Pimblett calls out ‘dirty b*stard’ Justin Gaethje for UFC rematch

Paddy Pimblett is looking for revenge against the only man to beat him in the UFC.

Pimblett, a former Cage Warriors champ, got off to a red-hot start in the UFC, with seven straight wins, including victories over Tony Ferguson, King Green and Michael Chandler. His luck finally ran out at UFC 324 in January, when he suffered a decision loss in an interim lightweight title fight with Justin Gaethje.

The loss to Gaethje was reasonably decisive, but Pimblett showed plenty of toughness in the fight, and notably suffered several inadvertent eye pokes. While his eyes thankfully healed, he’s clearly still not happy about the fouls, and wants to run it back with Gaethje to settle it.

Speaking to IFL TV, Pimblett reflected on his recent loss — and called for a rematch down the line.

Paddy Pimblett still focused on UFC title

“I Want a Rematch With Justin Gaethje…He Is a Dirty B**tard Poking Me in the Eyes”

Paddy Pimblett wants to run it back with Justin Gaethje 👀

Via: @IFLTV pic.twitter.com/eiCDm51A9V

— Fighters Only (@FightersOnly) April 20, 2026

“Everyone loses, that’s how you learn,” he said. “That’s how you get better. I probably learned more from losing that fight than I did from winning seven other UFC fights… I’ll be back better and stronger, and everyone’s going to see. I’ve always said it’s my destiny that I’ll be the world champion and I will.

“Hopefully I can get the rematch with Gaethje,” Pimblett added. “I’ve got nothing but respect for him but he’s a dirty bastard for poking me in the eyes.”

Pimblett will have to wait for the chance to fight Gaethje again. The interim champion is set to unify his belt with undisputed champ Ilia Topuria in the main event of UFC Freedom 250 at the White House. That goes down on June 14.

Pimblett’s next fight hasn’t been confirmed, but he has revealed the date for his return.