Justin Gaethje won the interim lightweight title via unanimous decision over Paddy Pimblett in UFC 324's main event, claiming the #1 contender spot in the first 2026 UFC rankings update. This positions Gaethje next in line to challenge undisputed champion Ilia Topuria upon his return. The rankings shift followed the first UFC event of the year. Natalia Silva also secured the next women's flyweight title shot after beating Rose Namajunas on the main card. This sets up major unification bouts, reshaping the lightweight and flyweight divisions with high-stakes clashes expected later in 2026.
