Justin Gaethje secured the interim lightweight championship with a unanimous decision victory over Paddy Pimblett at UFC 324, claiming the interim belt for the second time in his career. Following the win, Gaethje was ranked #1 in the lightweight division and is now positioned as the next challenger for undisputed titleholder Ilia Topuria. The victory bumped Arman Tsarukyan down to #2, while Charles Oliveira and Max Holloway also dropped in the rankings. Gaethje's path to a title shot against Topuria is now secured, pending "El Matador's" return to competition later in 2026.
