Justin Gaethje claimed the UFC interim lightweight championship with a unanimous decision victory over Paddy Pimblett in the main event of UFC 324, securing the #1 contender spot in the division. The win marks Gaethje's second interim title claim and positions him as the next challenger to undisputed lightweight champion Ilia Topuria whenever 'El Matador' returns to competition this year. Gaethje's victory bumped Arman Tsarukyan down to #2, while Charles Oliveira and Max Holloway dropped to #3 and #4 respectively following the rankings update. UFC 324 marked the promotion's debut on Paramount+ and featured multiple title fights to kick off the year.
