Gaethje Beats Pimblett, Earns Topuria Title Shot

Following his unanimous decision win over Paddy Pimblett in the UFC 324 main event, Justin Gaethje claimed the interim lightweight title for the second time and rose to #1 in the lightweight rankings. This positions Gaethje as the next challenger for undisputed champion Ilia Topuria upon his return. The first UFC rankings update of 2026 reflects outcomes from the promotion's opening event. Natalia Silva also secured a women's flyweight title shot after defeating Rose Namajunas on the main card. These developments clarify the lightweight and flyweight title pictures, setting up major unification bouts later in 2026.