Justin Gaethje is still trying to keep quiet about his “neck wound” in advance to tonight’s (Sat., Jan. 24, 2026) main event clash with Paddy Pimblett at UFC 324. “Highlight” is even getting testy with anyone
willing to ask him a question about his body.
This weekend is an important one for UFC, Paramount+, Gaethje, and Pimblett all together, which is why UFC 324’s main event needed to stay in tact. However, there was some concern that Gaethje may have contracted Staph infection earlier this month, leaving the headlining act in danger of falling apart. Some MMA experts refute Gaethje’s claim of an ingrown hair, but until anything is confirmed it remains complete speculation.
Gaethje, who is entering his last run at UFC gold, hasn’t done himself any favors over the past couple of weeks to put minds at ease. In fact, “Highlight” got pretty upset this week when a reporter asked him to his face about the wound on his neck. Gaethje, who has been wearing a band aid all week, immediately snapped at him.
Check it out below:
“You ever heard of HIPAA? What’s wrong with you?” asked Gaethje after the reporter brought up his “ingrown hair.” “Don’t ask me about my body.”
Gaethje, 37, will meet Pimblett atop UFC 324’s main card for the interim lightweight title. “Highlight” is currently a betting underdog against “Baddy,” but the lightweight veteran should never be counted out. Of course, if Gaethje is suffering from a bout with Staph then his performance could be altered.
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