Gaethje wins interim LW belt, eyes Topuria clash

Justin Gaethje won the interim lightweight title via unanimous decision over Paddy Pimblett in the UFC 324 main event, claiming the belt for the second time and vaulting to #1 contender status. This victory bumped Arman Tsarukyan to #2, with Charles Oliveira and Max Holloway dropping to #3 and #4. Gaethje now positions as the next challenger to undisputed champion Ilia Topuria upon his return. The win highlights Gaethje's resilience in a brutal division, setting up a superfight blending knockout power with Topuria's precision. It matters as it unifies paths to lightweight gold amid Holloway's BMF defense upcoming. Fans anticipate a violent clash shaking up rankings further.