Gaethje wins interim lightweight belt, Topuria next

Justin Gaethje defeated Paddy Pimblett via unanimous decision at UFC 324 to claim the interim lightweight title for the second time in his career. With this victory, Gaethje has secured the #1 ranking in the lightweight division and is now positioned as the next challenger to undisputed titleholder Ilia Topuria. The win sets up a highly anticipated matchup between Gaethje and Topuria whenever 'El Matador' returns to competition later in 2026. This fight will determine the undisputed lightweight champion and represents a significant moment in the division's title picture.