Justin Gaethje won the interim lightweight title 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. Natalia Silva earned the next women's flyweight shot by beating Rose Namajunas on the card. This shakeup clarifies the lightweight title picture amid Topuria's absence. Gaethje's power could test Topuria's defenses; unification bout expected mid-2026.[2]
