Gaethje Wins Interim LW Belt, Set to Face Topuria

Justin Gaethje won the interim lightweight belt via unanimous decision over Paddy Pimblett at UFC 324, claiming the #1 contender spot in the first 2026 rankings update. He is now lined up to challenge undisputed champion Ilia Topuria upon his return. This solidifies Gaethje's position in a stacked division. Natalia Silva also secured the next women's flyweight title shot after beating Rose Namajunas on the same card. Future unification bouts could reshape lightweight hierarchy.[2]