Justin Gaethje won the interim lightweight title via unanimous decision over Paddy Pimblett at UFC 324, claiming the #1 contender spot in updated 2026 rankings and bumping Arman Tsarukyan to #2, with Charles Oliveira and Max Holloway dropping to #3 and #4. This positions Gaethje as the next challenger for undisputed champion Ilia Topuria upon his return. The rankings update followed UFC 324's first event of the year on Paramount+. In women's flyweight, Natalia Silva became #1 contender after beating Rose Namajunas, setting up a fresh challenge for Valentina Shevchenko. Jean Silva jumped four spots to featherweight top 10 after defeating Arnold Allen. These shifts clarify title pictures in lightweight and flyweight divisions ahead of major 2026 bouts.[1]
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