The announcement of Paddy Pimblett’s interim lightweight title fight against Justin Gaethje at UFC 324 has sparked intense debate, with many questioning whether ‘The Baddy’ has been handed the easiest path to a UFC championship in modern history.
With reigning champion Ilia Topuria temporarily stepping away, the UFC moved swiftly to book Pimblett against the battle-tested Gaethje for the interim belt. The decision has drawn criticism from fighters and pundits who argue that other contenders, most notably the red-hot Arman Tsarukyan, are more deserving of the opportunity.
Dariush Weighs In: The “Easiest Shot” Debate
Veteran lightweight Beneil Dariush entered the fray to contextualise the controversy. While many claimed Pimblett’s route was unprecedentedly soft, Dariush pointed to a different example.
“The easiest title shot in UFC history? That was Michael Chandler,” Dariush stated in an interview. “He got a title fight against Charles Oliveira after just one win in the UFC over Dan Hooker. That’s the benchmark.”
Dariush’s comments highlight the subjective and often political nature of UFC matchmaking. While he didn’t outright endorse Pimblett’s shot, he reframed the debate around historical precedent rather than pure sporting merit.
Topuria’s Eyes on the Prize
Despite the noise, the man with the undisputed belt is watching closely. Ilia Topuria took to social media to offer brief, tactical advice to Pimblett: “Hands up, chin down,” signalling his interest in a future clash.
Paddy Win your next fight. Hands up, chin down… and Arman Petuh, this dance is for you 🤣 pic.twitter.com/fk9qiyQu5n
— Ilia Topuria (@Topuriailia) November 30, 2025
Topuria’s message makes the stakes clear. He intends to face the winner of the UFC 324 interim title fight upon his return in 2026, setting up a potential blockbuster unification bout. For Pimblett, this means a victory not only nets him a belt but also a guaranteed mega-fight against one of the sport’s biggest stars.
The Scrutiny on Pimblett’s Record
The core of the criticism lies in Pimblett’s resume. Despite an undefeated 9-0 UFC record, his most notable win came against the fading Michael Chandler. Critics contrast this with Arman Tsarukyan’s dominant victory over a higher-ranked Dan Hooker and his longer tenure against elite competition.
UFC President Dana White has defended the booking, citing Pimblett’s undeniable star power and unbeaten run. “The kid wins fights and sells tickets,” has been the promotion’s implicit argument, prioritising business over a strict contender hierarchy.
The High-Stakes Reality of UFC 324
For Pimblett, the controversy is merely background noise to the monumental task ahead. Justin Gaethje represents a terrifying leap in competition—a former interim champion known for his brutal, fan-friendly style and proven pedigree against the division’s best.
A win would instantly legitimise Pimblett’s championship credentials and silence many doubters. A loss, however, would validate the critics and label his title shot as a premature miscalculation by the UFC.
When the cage door closes at UFC 324, the talking points will fade, and it will be left to Pimblett to prove, once and for all, whether he belongs in the championship spotlight or if the critics were right all along.