Paddy Pimblett and Justin Gaethje will headline the first major UFC event of 2026.

The lightweight titans will duke it out at UFC 324 on January 24, live from Las Vegas' T-Mobile Arena.

It is a bout that carries massive implications for the 155lbs division, following the recent news that reigning champion Ilia Topuria will be taking a hiatus from the sport.

The Spaniard confirmed on social media that he won't be competing until after the first quarter of 2026 while he resolves a 'difficult moment' in his personal life.

With Topuria sidelined, UFC president Dana White confirmed on Thursday that Pimblett and Gaethje will compete for the interim lightweight title.

Pimblett and Gaethje headline a bumper card that also includes a showdown between Kayla Harrison and Amanda Nunes as wel

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