UFC 324 is set to kick off the calendar with a massive interim lightweight title fight as Justin Gaethje takes on Paddy Pimblett.
The event has already sparked a buzz in the MMA world, and the main event has divided fans, analysts, and fighters alike.
With the lightweight division once again in the spotlight, the biggest question remains: Who will walk out as the interim lightweight champion, Justin Gaethje or Paddy “The Baddy” Pimblett?
Let’s break down everything you need to know, from the controversy around the matchup to a detailed fight prediction.
UFC 324 Opens 2026 With a High-Stakes Lightweight War
UFC has a history of starting new years with statement events, and UFC 324 is no exception.
An interim title fight always adds pressure, intensity, and legacy implications, especially in a division as deep as lightweight.
This bout exists because the undisputed lightweight champion will not be defending the belt in the early months of 2026.
Rather than putting the division on hold, the UFC decided to move forward with an interim title, selecting two of the most talked-about fighters in the sport.
Justin Gaethje, a proven veteran and former interim champion, faces Paddy Pimblett, one of the biggest fan favorites in modern UFC history.
Controversy Around the Title Shot
When UFC announced Gaethje vs Pimblett for the interim lightweight belt, reactions were mixed.
Many fans had no issue with Justin Gaethje receiving another title opportunity.
Gaethje has consistently fought top contenders, delivered Fight of the Year performances, and remains one of the most exciting strikers the sport has ever seen.
Even after losses, he continues to stay relevant at the top of the division.
However, the bigger debate surrounds Paddy Pimblett’s title shot.
A large section of analysts and hardcore fans believe that Arman Tsarukyan was the more deserving contender based on rankings, recent performances, and competition level.
From a purely sporting perspective, that argument makes sense.
But UFC is also a business.
Paddy Pimblett brings massive attention, global fan interest, and strong pay-per-view appeal. Whether fans agree or not, UFC made its choice, and now the fight is real.
Justin Gaethje’s Road to UFC 324
Justin Gaethje enters UFC 324 as one of the most battle-tested fighters in lightweight history.
Recent Fight History
In his most recent fight, Gaethje earned a decision win over Rafael Fiziev, showing improved patience, control, and fight IQ.
That victory helped rebuild momentum after one of the most brutal knockouts of his career.
Before the Fiziev rematch, Gaethje suffered a devastating knockout loss to Max Holloway in the final seconds of the fifth round.
That moment shocked the MMA world and raised questions about Gaethje’s durability at the elite level.
However, it’s important to remember what came before that loss:
- Knockout victory over Dustin Poirier
- Decision win over Rafael Fiziev
- Former interim lightweight champion
- Multiple Fight of the Night and Performance bonuses
Gaethje has faced the best of the best for years, and very few fighters in the division have endured the level of competition he has.
Justin Gaethje’s Fighting Style and Strengths
Justin Gaethje is known for chaos, pressure, and violence inside the cage.
Key Strengths
- Devastating leg kicks that slow opponents quickly
- Powerful boxing combinations
- Dangerous uppercuts in close exchanges
- High-level wrestling defense despite rarely using offensive grappling
- Elite experience in five-round fights
Gaethje doesn’t fight to win rounds safely. He fights to break opponents mentally and physically.
However, his aggressive style also leaves openings, especially against fighters who can mix grappling with striking.
Paddy Pimblett’s Rise to the Interim Title Fight
Paddy Pimblett’s UFC journey has been nothing short of remarkable.
Once viewed as a hype-driven prospect, Pimblett has steadily silenced critics by stacking wins and improving his overall skill set.
Heading into UFC 324, he is riding an impressive winning streak against recognizable names.
Notable Wins
- Victory over Michael Chandler
- Win against Tony Ferguson
- Defeated King Green
- Decision win over Jared Gordon
What stands out is not just the wins, but how Pimblett wins.
He has finished fights by:
- Knockouts
- Submissions
- Decisions
That versatility is a major factor in why many believe he has the edge in this matchup.
Paddy Pimblett’s Fighting Style and Strengths
Paddy Pimblett is no longer just a flashy personality. He is a complete mixed martial artist.
Key Strengths
- Strong grappling and submission skills
- Dangerous transitions on the ground
- Improved striking defense
- Ability to recover under pressure
- Confidence that doesn’t fade in big moments
Unlike Gaethje, Pimblett is comfortable taking fights to the mat. He actively looks for takedowns, scrambles, and submission opportunities, which could be critical against a striker-heavy opponent.
Style Matchup: Gaethje vs Pimblett
This fight is a classic striker vs well-rounded fighter matchup.
Where Gaethje Has the Advantage
- Power striking
- Leg kicks that could limit Pimblett’s movement
- Experience in championship-level wars
- Ability to end the fight with one clean shot
Where Pimblett Has the Advantage
- Superior grappling and submission skills
- More diverse attack patterns
- Youth and momentum
- Ability to exploit Gaethje’s aggression
If this fight stays standing for long periods, Gaethje always has a chance to end it suddenly. His leg kicks and uppercuts are among the most dangerous weapons in the division.
But if Pimblett mixes levels well and forces grappling exchanges, the momentum could swing heavily in his favor.
Can Justin Gaethje Knock Out Paddy Pimblett?
Yes, absolutely.
If Gaethje lands his trademark leg kicks early and follows with heavy boxing combinations, Pimblett could struggle.
Gaethje’s uppercuts are especially dangerous when opponents attempt takedowns without proper setups.
However, Gaethje has also shown vulnerability when pressured into extended exchanges or taken into unfamiliar grappling situations.
Can Paddy Pimblett Survive Gaethje’s Power?
This is one of the biggest questions going into UFC 324.
Pimblett has shown toughness and recovery ability, but Gaethje hits harder than most fighters Pimblett has faced.
If Pimblett can survive the early rounds and avoid major damage, his chances increase significantly as the fight progresses.
Fight IQ and Game Plan
Fight IQ could decide this matchup.
- Gaethje must be disciplined, manage his aggression, and avoid reckless exchanges.
- Pimblett must stay patient, use footwork, and blend takedowns with striking.
If either fighter abandons their game plan, the fight could end quickly.
UFC 324: Gaethje vs Pimblett Prediction
When analyzing the overall skill set, recent form, and stylistic matchup, Paddy Pimblett appears to have more ways to win.
Gaethje’s knockout power always makes him dangerous, but Pimblett’s ability to mix striking, grappling, and submissions gives him a broader path to victory.
Final Prediction:
- Paddy Pimblett defeats Justin Gaethje
- Likely by submission or late-round stoppage, after surviving early pressure.
That said, this is MMA. One clean shot from Gaethje can change everything in seconds.
Final Thoughts on UFC 324 Main Event
UFC 324 is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about events of the year, and the interim lightweight title fight will headline that conversation.
Whether fans agree with the matchup or not, Gaethje vs Pimblett delivers drama, stakes, and unpredictability. Experience meets momentum, power meets versatility, and legacy meets opportunity.
One thing is certain: when the cage door closes, excuses won’t matter. Only the belt will.