Paddy Pimblett is set to face Justin Gaethje for the interim UFC lightweight title at UFC 324, scheduled to take place in Las Vegas on 24 January 2026. This eagerly anticipated matchup comes as UFC fans await a showdown between Liverpool’s rising star and one of the sport’s most experienced fighters.

The fight was organized after reigning lightweight champion Ilia Topuria announced he would not compete in the first quarter of 2026 due to personal matters. Topuria, who captured the lightweight title by defeating Charles Oliveira in July, confirmed that he intends to focus on his family during this time. The UFC responded by arranging an interim title fight to keep the lightweight division moving forward.

“I won’t be fighting in the first quarter of next year. I’m going through a difficult moment in my personal life,” Topuria wrote on social media. “I want to focus on my children and resolve this situation as soon as possible. I don’t want to hold up the division. As soon as the matters are resolved, I’ll let the UFC know I’m ready to return.”

Pimblett’s Road to the Interim Title

At 30 years old, Paddy Pimblett sits fifth in the UFC lightweight rankings. Despite not having defeated a fighter in the current top 10, Pimblett’s popularity has surged due to his charismatic personality, electric in-octagon performances, and advocacy for men’s mental health.

Pimblett’s most recent fight was in April 2025, when he defeated American Michael Chandler in the third round, marking his seventh consecutive UFC victory. His rise in the lightweight division, combined with his growing fanbase, has propelled him into contention for the interim title.

However, some fighters and fans have questioned Pimblett’s ranking. New Zealand’s Dan Hooker expressed skepticism, suggesting that the UFC may be “cherry-picking him for a title shot,” as other contenders remain higher in the rankings.

Gaethje’s Experience and Record

Justin Gaethje, 37, ranks just above Pimblett in the UFC lightweight standings. Known for his aggressive fighting style and striking prowess, Gaethje has been a key figure in the division since his UFC debut in 2017.

Gaethje’s UFC career highlights include winning the interim lightweight title in 2020 by defeating Tony Ferguson, though he lost the unification bout to Khabib Nurmagomedov five months later. He last competed in March 2025, securing a unanimous decision victory over Rafael Fiziev. With 9 wins in 14 UFC fights, Gaethje remains a formidable challenge for any lightweight contender.

The UFC 324 Card and Event Details

UFC 324 will mark the UFC’s first event under its seven-year partnership with streaming platform Paramount, moving away from the traditional pay-per-view model. The T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas will host the fight, which promises to be one of the biggest UFC events of early 2026.

The co-main event will feature American bantamweight champion Kayla Harrison defending her title against the returning Amanda Nunes, widely regarded as one of the greatest women’s fighters in MMA history. Nunes, a former double champion, comes out of retirement after leaving the sport in 2023, setting up a high-profile clash that MMA fans won’t want to miss.

Other Contenders in the Lightweight Division

While Pimblett and Gaethje prepare for the interim title fight, other top-ranked fighters remain in the mix. Arman Tsarukyan recently defeated Dan Hooker in Qatar, reinforcing his claim for a title shot. Former champions Charles Oliveira (2nd) and Max Holloway (3rd) currently have no fights scheduled, although both have previously lost to Topuria.

The UFC lightweight division continues to showcase a mix of veteran experience and rising talent, making every title fight and interim matchup an essential chapter in the sport’s history.