Paddy Pimblett: Tony Ferguson speaks from experience and delivers a firm prediction for Justin Gaethje vs. Paddy Pimblett at UFC 324

Tony Ferguson has spent enough time inside the cage with both Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett to offer a firm prediction for their UFC 324 interim title fight.

Ferguson believes Pimblett has the edge, not because he sees Gaethje fading as a competitor, but because he senses a difference in motivation. He noted that Gaethje has chased an undisputed title for years and never hid his frustration at falling short.

That lingering disappointment, in Ferguson’s view, could weigh on him again when the stakes rise. Speaking in a recent appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show, Ferguson said:

"Paddy wins the [fight] only because Justin doesn't want another interim belt... Paddy's not bad, dude. Paddy's not bad. He's very beatable. And Gaethje is very beatable as well... But when it goes into the passion and how upsetting Justin Gaethje has always been about not getting that real title shot, and they just keep dangling right there again. I mean, Paddy's in for a new treat, right? Paddy's the one that's never fought for a belt.”

Get the latest updates on One Championship Rankings at Sportskeeda and more

He added:

"So if I was going to the book and I was going to try to place the bet, I mean, I would go with the new kid that's going in there and that's going in there for the new opportunity, rather than the old kid thafought ft or the belt, disrespected it, threw it on the ground... In my mentality, that's how he's going to be again. That's going to go for Paddy, in my opinion. So best of luck for both of them and knock each other out.”

Check out Tony Ferguson's comments below (26:30):

Arman Tsarukyan backs Justin Gaethje and offers to train with him ahead of Paddy Pimblett clash

Arman Tsarukyan wants Justin Gaethje to end Paddy Pimblett’s rise at UFC 324. The lightweight contender is frustrated at being left out of the title mix while Pimblett steps into a spotlight he believes is undeserved.

Tsarukyan sees the matchup as a business move designed to pump Pimblett's rise and insists Gaethje can derail it. Speaking in an interview with ESPN MMA, he said:

"I hope Justin [is] not going to drink, party, and going to dedicate himself [and] be focused. It's his last chance in this life... This is his chance and the end of his career. Win the interim title, fight for the real title and then retire. That's the best for him. And Justin, if you need help, let me know. I'll fly! I'll fly to you and help you."