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Bold opening hook: Eddie Alvarez believes Paddy Pimblett might have the opening to exploit Justin Gaethje’s hidden vulnerability, and that insight could redefine UFC 324 for fans and fighters alike.
Eddie Alvarez sees a clear target for Paddy Pimblett as he prepares for his first shot at UFC gold. Pimblett, who earned a controversial opportunity to kick off the 2026 calendar, is set for a high-stakes test that many pundits have debated.
Dana White announced a stacked UFC 324 lineup that includes Justin Gaethje vs. Pimblett for an interim 155-pound title, a development that follows Ilia Topuria’s decision to take time away from competition early next year.
Even as some fans push back on Pimblett’s title chances, he remains focused on the challenge ahead. And he’s now hearing strategic guidance from a veteran who has faced Gaethje before.
Where Pimblett stands among Gaethje’s toughest opponents is a topic fans have debated for years. Gaethje’s résumé features battles with many notable names, including Michael Johnson, Eddie Alvarez, Dustin Poirier (twice), James Vick, Edson Barboza, Donald Cerrone, Tony Ferguson, Khabib Nurmagomedov, Michael Chandler, Charles Oliveira, Rafael Fiziev (twice), and Max Holloway. The question remains: where does Pimblett fit on that list?
In a conversation with reporter Mike Bohn, Alvarez pinpointed Gaethje’s jiu-jitsu as Pimblett’s potential best avenue for success at UFC 324. While Pimblett is entering the octagon chasing UFC gold, Gaethje brings a wealth of experience, including interim championship glory and two attempts at undisputed status. Gaethje’s losses in those title bids came via submission to Khabib Nurmagomedov in 2020 and a quick stoppage by Charles Oliveira a few years later.
Alvarez emphasized that Pimblett often makes strategic errors that leave him vulnerable, particularly in submissions, while praising his wrestling and striking as strengths. The gist: if there is a exploitable crack in Gaethje’s armor, it may lie in the realm of grappling and submissions, precisely where Pimblett has shown prowess. He warned that Pimblett’s aggressive scrambles could mirror Gaethje’s own methods, potentially creating chaos that benefits Pimblett rather than Gaethje.
Pimblett has also made clear that he expects a finish at UFC 324, insisting that the outcome will not go to the judges. He recently celebrated a KO win over Michael Chandler and a prior submission, signaling his confidence as he prepares to face a legend who hasn’t gone the distance in any of his five UFC title fights.
Thought-provoking question: With Gaethje’s elite wrestling and improving defense, will Pimblett’s ground game and scrambles be enough to tilt the balance, or will Gaethje weather the storm and impose his pace? Share your take in the comments: Do you agree with Alvarez’s assessment, or do you think Pimblett will surprise everyone by neutralizing Gaethje’s best offers?
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