The UFC released its first official rankings update of 2026 following UFC 324, the promotion's first event of the year. Justin Gaethje claimed the interim lightweight title with a unanimous decision win over Paddy Pimblett in the main event, vaulting to #1 in the lightweight division behind undisputed champion Ilia Topuria. Max Holloway will defend his BMF title against Gaethje in a rematch at UFC 326 after winning it via last-second knockout at UFC 300. Jean Silva rose four spots to #5 in featherweight rankings after defeating Arnold Allen, who dropped to #7. This reshapes title pictures in lightweight and featherweight, setting up high-stakes clashes ahead.
