UFC 324: Paddy 'The Baddy' Pimblett vs Justin Gaethje odds, prediction for lightweight interim world title fight

• Ladbrokes previews Paddy Pimblett vs Justin Gaethje in the main event of UFC 324

• Interim lightweight world title at stake

• Pimblett enters the fight as betting favourite

One of the most intriguing lightweight matchups in recent memory takes centre stage this weekend, as Paddy 'The Baddy' Pimblett faces Justin Gaethje in the UFC 324 main event in Las Vegas. With the interim lightweight world title on the line, the fight represents a major step up in competition for Pimblett and another high-stakes test for Gaethje at the elite end of the division.

Ladbrokes’ full preview of the fight looks at the latest Pimblett vs Gaethje odds, breaks down how the two lightweights match up stylistically, and assesses where the key advantages lie ahead of a fascinating clash at 155 lbs.

Paddy Pimblett headlines UFC 324 as one of the sport’s most exciting rising stars. The Liverpudlian has combined dynamic striking with slick submission work during his UFC run and enters this fight off the back of a TKO victory over Michael Chandler that boosted his profile in the lightweight division. Pimblett’s enthusiasm, finishing instincts and growing experience have helped him rise quickly through the ranks and now he gets his first title shot.

Justin Gaethje is a perennial fan favourite and one of the most dangerous lightweights of his generation. The veteran’s aggressive style, leg kicks and iron chin have produced countless high-octane fights, including two Fight of the Year winners. A former lightweight interim champion himself, he arrives in Las Vegas after last being seen in March defeating Rafael Fiziev by unanimous decision, and his presence in big fights is never in doubt.

This bout headlines the first major UFC event of the year and doubles as a fight for the interim lightweight title, keeping the division moving while reigning champion Ilia Topuria remains sidelined.

In the outright betting, Pimblett is the favourite at odds of 4/9, with Gaethje the underdog priced at 7/4. There is plenty of action available including method-of-victory and round markets for both fighters.

Pimblett enters this fight with an undefeated UFC record since joining in 2021, and a style built on pace, submissions and creative striking. Gaethje carries years of experience at the elite level and has developed one of the most respected pressure-based striking games in the division, with twenty of his wins coming by knockout. Their contrast in styles, of Pimblett’s dynamic transitions versus Gaethje’s measured aggression, makes this a compelling clash at 155 lbs.

Pimblett’s rise has been marked by variety and finishing ability, while Gaethje’s resume is stacked with elite opponents and nine Fight of the Night awards. The Liverpudlian’s momentum and creativity will be tested against Gaethje’s veteran strength and experience, and his best chance will be grappling on the floor and preventing the American from delivering his brutal leg kicks. Two of Gaethje's five losses, to Charles Oliveira and Khabib Nurmagomedov, were by submission, and with ten of Paddy's victories coming in this manner that will be an area he'll look to target.

Pimblett enters the fight as the favourite, driven by momentum and a style that consistently creates chaos once fights hit the mat. Gaethje’s power and experience make him dangerous early, but his aggressive approach has often left openings in grappling exchanges. At six years younger than his opponent, if Pimblett can weather the early pressure and bring the fight into scrambles, his submission game could quickly become a decisive factor, with a tap-out looking the most likely route to victory.

Prediction: Paddy Pimblett to win by submission

View the latest UFC odds.

All odds and markets are correct as of the date of publication.