Justin Gaethje

Paddy Pimblett purchased the corner stool on which Ilia Topuria retired from his fight against Justin Gaethje, paying $13,700 at auction. Pimblett posted a photo with the stool alongside news of the purchase, delivering a pointed troll aimed at the former featherweight champion.

Ilia TopuriaPaddy PimblettJustin Gaethje

UFC’s second-half 2026 slate includes several high-profile matchups that materially shape multiple divisions, including Ilia Topuria vs. Justin Gaethje, Alex Pereira vs. Ciryl Gane, and Tom Aspinall vs. Ciryl Gane 2. ESPN’s fight-center preview and related coverage identify these as the most anticipated bouts still to come, with championship implications at lightweight, heavyweight, and beyond. The same UFC schedule discussion also points to other notable matchups such as Alexander Volkanovski vs. Movsar Evloev and Jean Silva vs. Aaron Pico. These bookings matter because they set the title landscape heading into late 2026 and clarify who is next in line across several weight classes.

Tom AspinallJean SilvaIlia TopuriaAaron Pico+5

Following his victory over Conor McGregor at UFC 329, Max Holloway has expressed willingness to wait for a trilogy fight but told fans that a lightweight title shot against Justin Gaethje is an equally appealing alternative. Holloway pointed to their shared history — most notably his knockout of Gaethje with one second remaining at UFC 300 — as reason the matchup would be a natural next step. The Hawaiian also noted he is targeting a path back to gold after losing the BMF title to Charles Oliveira earlier this year.

Charles OliveiraMax HollowayJustin GaethjeConor McGregor

Justin Gaethje has been told to vacate the UFC lightweight title, setting up a vacant-title fight involving Paddy Pimblett. The development marks a significant shake-up at 155 pounds.

Paddy PimblettJustin Gaethje

Conor McGregor has acknowledged that five years away from competition left him overeager when he returned, causing him to "rush out the gate." McGregor said he does not regret opening with a flying kick but believes he executed it incorrectly.

Jon JonesMax HollowayAnderson SilvaIlia Topuria+6

Jon Jones has stated that a return to competition in the UFC is still on the table. Jones noted that he remains on the UFC's doping testing list, keeping the path to a comeback open.

Jon JonesJustin GaethjeArman Tsarukyan