Pepper plant question?

Hi, everyone.

I'm rather new to growing peppers, but I understand that pinching early pepper buds and flowers is recommended to encourage growth so the plant is at a satisfactory size before you want it to begin fruiting. However, I noticed after picking a bud at the very top center of the plant, I've noticed it's hardened and turned a brownish color.

Will this plant stop growing vertically now? Or will new vertical growth eventually emerge?

I included an image for reference.

Thanks a lot!