Paddy Pimblett faces Justin Gaethje for UFC 324 title shot in Las Vegas showdown
Paddy Pimblett is set to headline UFC 324 against Justin Gaethje in Las Vegas on January 24, 2026. The fight marks the first UFC event broadcast under the new Paramount+ deal. A win would secure Pimblett’s first world title and position him among the sport’s elite contenders.
The Liverpudlian, currently ranked fifth by the UFC, has long faced doubts from critics. He remains unfazed by misconceptions about his opponents and thrives on proving doubters wrong. Pimblett believes fighter pay hinges on drawing crowds and entertaining fans rather than rankings alone.
UFC 324 takes place at the T-Mobile Arena, a regular venue for major UFC events. If victorious, Pimblett plans to celebrate at Zouk, a popular nightclub in Las Vegas. His sights are already set on future matchups with top-ranked fighters like Ilia Topuria, Arman Tsarukyan, and Max Holloway. Looking further ahead, Pimblett has outlined a dream five-fight deal to close his career. His ideal opponents include Tsarukyan, Holloway, Charles Oliveira, and Islam Makhachev—fighters he sees as the ultimate tests before retirement.
A win over Gaethje would propel Pimblett into title contention and high-profile bouts. The fight also kicks off the UFC’s new broadcasting partnership with Paramount+. His post-fight plans and ambitious future line-up signal confidence in his ability to dominate the division.
