Gaethje claims interim LW belt, vaults to #1

Following UFC 324, Justin Gaethje claimed the interim lightweight title with a win over Paddy Pimblett, vaulting to #1 contender behind champion Ilia Topuria. Gaethje displaced Arman Tsarukyan to #2, with Charles Oliveira and Max Holloway dropping to #3 and #4. Gaethje now lines up for a unification bout with Topuria later in 2026, reshaping lightweight title picture. Holloway defends BMF belt in rematch vs Oliveira at UFC 326. This update signals Gaethje's resurgence and sets stage for major clashes amid division volatility.