Following his unanimous decision win over Paddy Pimblett at UFC 324, Justin Gaethje claimed the interim lightweight belt and #1 contender spot in the first 2026 UFC rankings update. He is now positioned to challenge undisputed champion Ilia Topuria upon the champ's return. This solidifies Gaethje's title path in a stacked division. Natalia Silva also earned the next women's flyweight shot after beating Rose Namajunas. Fans anticipate a blockbuster lightweight unification bout later this year.
