Paddy Pimblett back in training just days after grueling Gaethje showdown

Paddy Pimblett is already back in the gym following the toughest test of his UFC career, signaling an early return to work after his high-profile clash with Justin Gaethje at UFC 324.

The bout, contested for the interim lightweight title, marked a major moment for the Liverpool native despite ending in defeat.

Aftermath of a career-defining fight

Pimblett headlined UFC 324 in what was widely regarded as the biggest fight of his professional journey. After five rounds of intense, back-and-forth action, Gaethje emerged victorious, becoming the first fighter in UFC history to win the interim lightweight title twice. The fight was later named the UFC’s Fight of the Month, underlining the scale and competitiveness of the matchup.

While Pimblett avoided any serious structural injuries, the damage he absorbed was evident. His face bore the marks of a grueling contest, raising immediate questions about how long he would be sidelined following the loss.

Injury update brings relief

Earlier this week, the 31-year-old addressed concerns about his condition, revealing that he escaped without major injuries.

Paddy Pimblett noted, however, that he believes he may have suffered a scratched cornea due to eye pokes during the fight. Despite that concern, the injury does not appear to be severe enough to keep him away from training.

Just one day later, Pimblett returned to contact training, sharing photos of himself back on the mats with gloves on. Alongside the images, he wrote:

“Back in the lab. Nice to be back training, I’ll be in that Octagon before you’s know it people, believe that.”

Focused on redemption

The swift return to training represents a notable shift for Pimblett, who has previously been criticized for a lack of discipline between fights.

Known for significant weight gain outside of camp, the lightweight now appears locked in on improving and rebuilding momentum.

With his first UFC loss now behind him, Paddy Pimblett is expected to face multiple contenders before earning another opportunity at UFC gold.

The early signs, however, suggest a fighter motivated by redemption rather than setback, eager to prove that his journey toward the top of the lightweight division is far from over.