Wayne Rooney Sends Support to Paddy Pimblett After UFC 324 Defeat and Hospital Visit
Football legend Wayne Rooney has publicly praised fellow Liverpudlian Paddy Pimblett as a 'warrior' following his intense bout at UFC 324, despite the fighter's loss and subsequent hospitalisation. The heartfelt message came after Justin Gaethje secured a unanimous decision victory to claim the interim lightweight championship, ending Pimblett's seven-fight winning streak in the UFC.
Rooney's Instagram Tribute to Scouser Spirit
Taking to Instagram, Rooney expressed his admiration for Pimblett's resilience, writing: "What a fight. Big respect to Paddy Pimblett. Tough as they come. Warrior." This show of solidarity highlights the strong bond between the two sports personalities from Liverpool, with Rooney acknowledging the heart and determination displayed by Pimblett throughout the gruelling five-round contest.
Detailed Account of the UFC 324 Main Event
The fight itself was a relentless affair, with judges scoring it 48-47, 49-46, and 49-46 in favour of Gaethje. Key moments included:
- An early takedown by Gaethje in the first round, which Pimblett weathered.
- An accidental eye poke to Pimblett that required a ring doctor's assessment, though he was cleared to continue.
- Intense exchanges of standing blows in the second and third rounds.
- Pimblett struggling in the fourth round and attempting a takedown in the fifth, which Gaethje defended.
Despite his efforts, Pimblett could not secure a finishing blow, and the two fighters embraced respectfully after the final bell.
Post-Fight Reactions and Hospitalisation
In his post-fight comments, Pimblett reflected on the loss, stating: "I wanted to be walking away with that belt. I know how tough I am and I don't need to prove that to anyone. There is no man I'd rather lose to than the Highlight; he is someone I loved watching growing up and it shows why he is a legend." He acknowledged the fairness of the 48-47 scorecard and mentioned a body shot in the first round that affected him, but remained optimistic: "You live and you learn; I'm 31, I will be back better. You haven't seen the last of me."
Gaethje reciprocated the respect, noting: "Paddy is right; scousers do not get knocked out! What a gangster. I told him just then, I was just where you were at not too long ago. It is a crazy sport and an amazing life."
UFC CEO Dana White confirmed that Pimblett was sent directly to hospital after the fight, with Gaethje also scheduled for medical checks. White commented on Pimblett's durability: "He got dropped a bunch of times. And he obviously took some big shots from a guy who knocks everybody out. He showed tonight that he's tough, he's durable and he can take a punch. He can take a lot of punches, actually." However, he expressed uncertainty about the long-term impact on Pimblett's career, emphasising the risks of excessive punishment in the sport.
This event underscores the physical demands of mixed martial arts, with Pimblett's hospitalisation serving as a stark reminder of the sport's intensity. Rooney's public support adds a personal touch, celebrating the unwavering spirit of athletes from Liverpool in the face of adversity.
