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Justin Gaethje won the interim lightweight title via unanimous decision over Paddy Pimblett in the UFC 324 main event on the first UFC event of 2026. This victory propelled Gaethje to #1 in the lightweight rankings, positioning him as the next challenger for undisputed champion Ilia Topuria upon Topuria's return. The bout highlighted Gaethje's second interim belt win, solidifying his status in a stacked division. Meanwhile, Natalia Silva defeated Rose Namajunas on the main card, securing her spot as the next women's flyweight title contender. These developments follow the first UFC rankings update of 2026, reshaping title pictures in two divisions amid the promotion's new Paramount partnership.
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