Gaethje wins interim LW title, sets up Topuria showdown

Justin Gaethje defeated Paddy Pimblett by unanimous decision in the UFC 324 main event to claim the interim lightweight championship for the second time. This victory propelled Gaethje to #1 in the lightweight rankings, dropping Arman Tsarukyan to #2, Charles Oliveira to #3, and Max Holloway to #4. Ilia Topuria remains the undisputed lightweight champion, positioning Gaethje as the next title challenger upon Topuria's return. The event marked UFC's debut on Paramount+ and featured significant action despite the absence of the planned co-main between Kayla Harrison and Amanda Nunes. This reshapes the lightweight division's title picture for 2026.