Gaethje claims interim belt, becomes #1 contender

Following his unanimous decision win over Paddy Pimblett at UFC 324, Justin Gaethje claimed the interim lightweight belt and rose to #1 in the division rankings in the first 2026 update. He is now next in line to challenge undisputed champion Ilia Topuria upon Topuria's return. Natalia Silva earned the next women's flyweight title shot after beating Rose Namajunas. This clarifies the lightweight title picture amid Topuria's absence. Gaethje's positioning strengthens his case for unification. Expect the bout by mid-2026.[2]