Paddy Pimblett paid tribute to Liverpool's Diogo Jota and brother Andre Silva after losing to Justin Gaethje at UFC 324, showing his true character in defeat.
Paddy Pimblett interviewed by Joe Rogan after his UFC clash against Justin Gaethje
Paddy Pimblett interviewed by Joe Rogan after his UFC clash against Justin Gaethje
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Image: Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC)
Paddy Pimblett has once again paid tribute to and his brother Andre Silva, after his loss at 324 to American fighter Justin Gaethje. The 'Baddy', who hails from , is a devoted Reds supporter and has openly expressed his allegiance to the club that has motivated him throughout his fighting career.
The 31-year-old received encouragement from the likes of and ahead of his latest bout, with both wishing him success. Despite giving his all, the fighter couldn't get past Gaethje, falling via decision following a gruelling five-round battle.
Despite the disappointing result, still found time to address matters dear to him, including conversations about mental health awareness. He began by honouring a close mate and his family, stating: "Can I say a few things, though? Just a few things I wanted to say, it would've been better if I won like, but, my friend's mother, Liam Gittins, like my little brother in the gym, Julie Gittins, his mum passed away a couple of months ago, so I want to dedicate that to him."
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LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 17: A mural in tribute to former Liverpool player Diogo Jota is seen outside the stadium prior to during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Liverpool FC and Atletico de Madrid at Anfield on September 17, 2025 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)](https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/arne-slot-liverpool-bournemouth-blame-36609619)
Pimblett went on to champion the cause of men's mental health support, having lost two dear friends since his previous fight, before offering his respects to last year. He continued: "Obviously, I'm a Liverpool fan, and I know there'll be loads of Liverpool fans here, there's a Liverpool legend what passed away in the past few months, Diogo Jota, and his brother Andre, so I'd like to dedicate that performance to them, even though I didn't win."
Jota continues to be remembered fondly by those connected with Liverpool, with tributes ongoing through the season so far. This includes his chant being sung during the 20th minute of matches, matching his shirt number at the club, whilst his spot in the changing room is still preserved.
A mural in tribute to former Liverpool player Diogo Jota is seen outside the stadium prior to during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League match between Liverpool FC and Atletico de Madrid
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 17: A mural in tribute to former Liverpool player Diogo Jota is seen outside the stadium prior to during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Liverpool FC and Atletico de Madrid at Anfield on September 17, 2025 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)
It's one of many tributes made for the Portuguese star, since his sudden passing last year. Although Pimblett seemed disappointed that he couldn't hold aloft a championship belt to demonstrate his commitment to those he honoured, it proved a heart-warming moment that earned applause from fans at the fight in Las Vegas widespread praise across social media.
The 31-year-old also offered generous words about Gaethje, praising his rival's display in the bout that ultimately didn't go his way. "I wanted to be walking away with that belt," Pimblett revealed.
"And I know how tough I am anyway. I don't need to prove it to anyone. I wanted to leave with that belt," he said in his immediate reaction to the fight. But there's no man I'd rather lose to than 'The Highlight', someone I grew up watching. It shows why he's a legend, right there. I thought 48-47 was a fair scorecard.
"I'm not gonna lie, he hit me with a body shot in that first round, hit me right in the solar plexus, and it got me. I thought I was winning the round up until that point. I'm 31, you haven't seen the last of me."
Gaethje eventually secured victory with judges' scorecards reading: 48-47, 49-46, 49-46. Whilst he made history as the inaugural two-time interim champion at UFC 324, the American still took a moment to offer his own tribute to Pimblett for the resilience he displayed.
"Scousers cannot get knocked out! This Scouser does not get knocked out. What a f***ing gangster," he declared. "I knew that I had to put him on his back foot.
"He's very dangerous and has great timing. I had to work really hard, but champions move forward, and I just showed you why that is a must."
It remains to be seen what is next for Pimblett, but the Liverpool fighter seems determined to come back to the Octagon once again in the future, if his post-fight interview is anything to go by.