- Paddy Pimblett postponed his birthday celebrations to stay focused for UFC 324 on January 24 in Las Vegas.
- He will challenge Justin Gaethje for the interim lightweight title; the winner is expected to face Ilia Topuria later.
- Pimblett says he will celebrate both his birthday and a title win together after the fight.
Pimblett puts party plans on hold
Paddy Pimblett turned 31 but has delayed any birthday festivities as he ramps up for the biggest fight of his career. The Liverpool native is headlining UFC 324 on January 24 against Justin Gaethje for the interim lightweight title in Las Vegas.
Focus, sacrifice and weight
Known for his lively personality outside the cage, Pimblett said he has sacrificed a typical birthday celebration to keep his training uninterrupted. He aims to make the 155lb lightweight limit — a target he has hit only once since joining the UFC — and has tightened his camp to reach peak condition.
What Pimblett told fans
In a social post addressing followers, Pimblett thanked fans for the birthday messages and explained his decision: his birthday is “on hold” until January 24, when he plans to combine a birthday party with a world title celebration if he wins.
“Paddy Pimblett has postponed his birthday celebrations and will only celebrate after winning the interim belt at UFC 324. 🏆” — Red Corner MMA (via Twitter)
Match stakes and implications
The main event pits Pimblett against Justin Gaethje, a dangerous veteran with heavy hands and a relentless pace. The winner of UFC 324 is expected to earn a shot at undisputed champion Ilia Topuria later in the year, putting even more pressure on both fighters to perform.
Styles and numbers
Pimblett, nicknamed “The Baddy,” brings a well-rounded game with 10 submissions among his 23 wins — an indicator of his grappling threat. Gaethje has shown vulnerabilities to submissions in past title fights, which gives Pimblett a potential path to victory if he can secure takedowns and control the distance.
Road to Las Vegas
Both fighters trained through the holidays. Pimblett’s choice to skip celebrating reflects a broader strategy to remove distractions and sharpen his conditioning for the title tilt. He and his team hope the extra discipline pays off on fight night.
What to watch on Jan. 24
Key factors will include Pimblett’s ability to take Gaethje down safely, control the clinch, and avoid Gaethje’s knockout power. If Pimblett can implement his grappling plan, a submission is a realistic outcome. If not, Gaethje’s striking can change the fight in an instant.
Fans can expect a high-stakes, action-packed main event in Las Vegas — and if Pimblett gets his way, a birthday and belt celebration to match.
Image Referance: https://bloodyelbow.com/2026/01/04/paddy-pimblett-cancels-birthday-celebrations-as-ufc-324-title-fight-moves-closer/