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Paddy Pimblett has honoured Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva, following his loss at UFC 324 to American contender Justin Gaethje. The Liverpool-born 'Baddy' is a fervent supporter of the Reds and has often expressed how the club's success has been a driving force in his fighting career. The 31-year-old received well-wishes from Jurgen Klopp and Steven Gerrard ahead of his latest bout.

Despite giving it his all, Pimblett was unable to triumph over Gaethje, losing by decision after a gruelling five-round match. Despite the defeat, Pimblett took the opportunity to address issues close to his heart, including mental health awareness. He began by dedicating his fight to a close friend 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."

Pimblett further emphasised his advocacy for men's mental health support, having lost two close friends since his last fight. He then paid tribute to Liverpool star Diogo Jota and his brother, Andre Silva, who tragically died in a car accident last year.

He further stated: "Obviously, I'm a Liverpool fan, and I know there'll be loads of Liverpool fans here, there's a Liverpool legend who 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 hold a special place in the hearts of those connected with Liverpool, with tributes such as his chant being sung on the 20th minute of matches, corresponding to his shirt number at the club, and his spot in the dressing room still being preserved.

Despite Pimblett seeming disappointed that he couldn't dedicate a title to those he mentioned, it was a poignant moment that had many supporters on social media praising the interview.

The 31-year-old also had some complimentary words for Gaethje, when he acknowledged the performance of his opponent in the match that ultimately went in his favour.

"I wanted to be walking away with that belt," Pimblett said. "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 expressed 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 secured victory with judges scoring the bout: 48-47, 49-46, 49-46. Whilst he etched his name in the record books as the first two-time interim champion at UFC 324, the American fighter still found time to commend Pimblett for the resilience he displayed.

"Scousers cannot get knocked out! This Scouser does not get knocked out. What a f***ing gangster," he said. "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."