Justin Gaethje secured the interim lightweight title for the second time with a unanimous decision victory over Paddy Pimblett at UFC 324 on April 12, 2026. The win positions Gaethje as the #1 contender in the lightweight division and next in line to challenge undisputed titleholder Ilia Topuria whenever 'El Matador' returns to competition this year. Gaethje's dominant performance against Pimblett in the main event highlighted UFC 324, which marked the promotion's debut on Paramount+. The interim title win sets up a highly anticipated matchup between two of the division's elite fighters, with significant implications for the lightweight title picture.





