BREAKING: An exciting interim lightweight title fight between Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett is set to headline UFC 324 on January 24, 2024, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, UFC CEO Dana White confirmed just moments ago. This highly anticipated match will kick off the UFC’s new broadcasting partnership with Paramount+, with the main card starting at 9 p.m. ET.
The announcement came during the thrilling NFL game between the Kansas City Chiefs and Dallas Cowboys, ensuring that fans across sports are buzzing about this electrifying fight.
With Ilia Topuria remaining the undisputed lightweight champion, the UFC has opted for this interim title bout due to Topuria’s need for personal time off. Earlier today, Topuria shared on social media, “I won’t be fighting in the first quarter of next year. I’m going through a difficult moment in my personal life. I want to focus on my children and resolve this situation as soon as possible.” His decision underscores the human element behind the sport, as he aims to prioritize family while allowing the division to continue moving forward.
Gaethje, holding a record of 26-5, has not fought since his decision victory over Rafael Fiziev in March. The veteran fighter previously hinted at retirement if he did not secure a title fight soon. He earned this opportunity after knocking out Dustin Poirier in 2023 but faced a setback in his last bout against Max Holloway, where he suffered a fifth-round knockout.
Meanwhile, Pimblett continues to impress with an undefeated UFC record of 7-0, including notable victories over Tony Ferguson and Michael Chandler. The 30-year-old Liverpool native has rapidly become one of the sport’s brightest stars.
White has indicated that the victor of the Gaethje-Pimblett clash is expected to face Topuria in a unification match later this year, raising the stakes even higher for this interim title fight.
The UFC 324 co-main event will feature a thrilling showdown as women’s bantamweight champion Kayla Harrison defends her title against former two-weight champion Amanda Nunes, who is making her comeback after retiring in June 2023. This return adds another layer of excitement to the event.
Additionally, several former champions will grace the card. Sean O’Malley is set to take on Song Yadong, while Alexa Grasso and Rose Namajunas will meet in a flyweight bout. Heavyweight contender Derrick Lewis will face Waldo Cortes Acosta, and ranked featherweights Arnold Allen and Jean Silva will look to enhance their standings in the division.
As UFC 324 approaches, fans are eagerly anticipating what promises to be an unforgettable night of fights. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
