The UFC launches its 2026 fight calendar in spectacular fashion this weekend with UFC 324: Gaethje vs. Pimblett, live from the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. This high-profile event not only delivers at the highest competitive level, but also marks the UFC’s first numbered event under its new broadcast partnership with Paramount+, reshaping how fans will consume the sport in the United States moving forward.
🥊 Main Event: Interim Lightweight Title on the Line
In the evening’s headlining bout, No. 4-ranked lightweight contender Justin “The Highlight” Gaethje faces No. 5 ranked Paddy “The Baddy” Pimblett for the interim UFC Lightweight Championship. Both fighters bring contrasting but electrifying styles into the Octagon:
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Gaethje (26-5) is one of the most exciting and durable fighters in MMA history, known for his pressure, power, and relentless pace. A former interim champion and BMF titleholder, he’s eager to reassert his status among the division’s elite as he chases another title shot.
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Pimblett (23-3) has become one of the sport’s most charismatic and polarizing stars, riding a long win streak into his first title opportunity. His blend of grappling and unpredictable striking has made him a fan favorite and a legitimate contender.
A victory here doesn’t just bring gold — it almost certainly sets up a future showdown with the undisputed champion later in 2026 once reigning titleholder Ilia Topuria returns to action.
🔥 Co-Main: O’Malley vs. Song Yadong — Stakes Still High
The co-main event features a bantamweight clash between Sean “Sugar” O’Malley, the former UFC bantamweight champion, and China’s own Song Yadong, nicknamed the “Kung Fu Kid.” After consecutive losses to Merab Dvalishvili, O’Malley is looking to get back on track and re-enter the title picture, while Song eyes a signature win that would bolster his own contender resume.
Their matchup was recently upgraded to co-main event status following a reshuffle on the card, putting even more focus on this pivotal bantamweight battle.
📅 Event Details & Broadcast Info
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Date: Saturday, January 24, 2026
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Venue: T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
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Broadcast (U.S.): Paramount+
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Early Prelims: 5:00 p.m. ET
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Prelims: 7:00 p.m. ET
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Main Card: 9:00 p.m. ET
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This event launches the UFC’s new broadcast era with numbered events streamed at no additional pay-per-view cost for Paramount+ subscribers, marking a major shift in how MMA’s premium cards are delivered to fans.
🥋 Why UFC 324 Matters
UFC 324 isn’t just another fight night — it feels like a changing of the guard:
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A new broadcast era begins with Paramount+ taking over the main platform for UFC numbered events.
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The interim lightweight title fight could reset the division’s hierarchy and propel either Gaethje or Pimblett toward an epic showdown with the undisputed champion.
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High-profile undercard bouts — from looming contender clashes to dynamic heavyweight showdowns — add depth and intrigue to the card.
Expect explosive action, pivotal career moments, and potential shifting tides at the top of multiple divisions as the UFC embarks on what promises to be a monumental year in mixed martial arts.
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