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Gaethje's Neck 'Ingrown Hair' Fuels Fight Rumors
6 Jan
Summary
- Justin Gaethje clarified a neck wound is an ingrown hair, not staph infection.
- Gaethje faces Paddy Pimblett for the interim lightweight title at UFC 324.
- This fight is Gaethje's final opportunity for UFC championship gold.

Speculation surrounding Justin Gaethje's health has been put to rest. A recent viral photo of a visible neck wound led to rumors of a staph infection, potentially jeopardizing his interim lightweight title bout against Paddy Pimblett on January 24. Gaethje took to X to clarify that the injury is a minor ingrown hair, not a serious infection.
The upcoming UFC 324 event will feature Gaethje facing Pimblett in a compelling stylistic clash. Gaethje, known for his aggressive striking, aims to keep the fight standing, while Pimblett will seek to utilize his submission skills. The winner is slated to challenge current lightweight champion Ilia Topuria.
At 37, Gaethje perceives this fight as his final opportunity for UFC gold. He expressed on his YouTube channel that winning the interim title against Pimblett and then facing Topuria would be the ideal way to conclude his career. Gaethje is focused on delivering a near-perfect performance over 25 minutes.




