The UFC will kick off the year with an intense matchup between Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett for the interim lightweight title at UFC 324, scheduled for January 24 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. This contest carries high stakes as both fighters vie to position themselves for a future undisputed lightweight championship fight.
Pimblett, a Liverpool native with a 23-3 record, has expressed his desire to face reigning lightweight champion Ilia Topuria, who remains sidelined due to personal reasons. Despite this, Pimblett remains cautious and is preparing thoroughly for a tough challenge against Gaethje, who holds a 26-5 record and looks to reclaim the interim title he secured in 2020.
Scheduling and Location Details for UFC 324
UFC 324 will be held on January 24 at the T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas. For fans in the United Kingdom, the main card is scheduled to begin at 2 a.m. on Sunday, January 25, corresponding to 9 p.m. Eastern Time in the United States. The preliminary bouts will start earlier at midnight UK time (7 p.m. ET), setting the stage for a night packed with action.
Broadcast Information and Viewing Options
Viewers in the UK can watch the Pimblett vs. Gaethje fight on TNT Sports Box Office for £19.99 via platforms including discovery+, EE TV, Prime Video, Sky, and Virgin Media TV. In the United States, UFC 324 marks the start of the UFC’s broadcast partnership with Paramount+, offering fans new streaming options. Additionally, ESPN will provide continuous live updates throughout fight night, keeping fans informed even if they cannot access the live feed.
The Significance of the Interim Lightweight Title Fight
The confrontation between Gaethje and Pimblett is more than just a headline bout; it determines the next contender for the UFC’s undisputed lightweight championship. The winner will either challenge Ilia Topuria upon his return or face another opponent to claim the full title at 155 pounds. Pimblett has risen quickly through the lightweight ranks, currently holding the No. 5 spot after defeating notable competitors like Tony Ferguson and Michael Chandler. His rivalry with Topuria has gained considerable media attention, though Pimblett insists on focusing first on his battle with Gaethje.
Gaethje is aiming to reclaim the interim belt he previously won and possibly secure one final chance at the undisputed championship. He has dismissed rumors suggesting he is battling a staph infection ahead of the fight, ensuring fans that he is ready to compete at his highest level.
Complete Fight Card for UFC 324
1. Lightweight: Justin Gaethje vs. Paddy Pimblett
2. Bantamweight: Sean O’Malley vs. Song Yadong
3. Heavyweight: Waldo Cortes-Acosta vs. Derrick Lewis
4. Featherweight: Arnold Allen vs. Jean Silva
5. Lightweight: Michael Johnson vs. Alexander Hernandez
6. Light Heavyweight: Nikita Krylov vs. Modestas Bukauskas
7. Bantamweight: Umar Nurmagomedov vs. Deiveson Figueiredo
Additional Notes and Developments Surrounding the Event
Although the card includes several exciting matchups, the women’s bantamweight fight between champion Kayla Harrison and Amanda Nunes has been postponed, adding a level of uncertainty to the weekend’s schedule. Sean O’Malley will return to the Octagon to face Song Yadong, further intensifying the event’s appeal.
Pimblett has also publicly advocated for changes in UFC regulations, specifically calling for the allowance of kicks and knees to the head of grounded opponents, a technique currently prohibited. This stance adds a controversial layer to his persona as a fighter pushing for evolution within the sport.
“Justin Gaethje has shut down speculation that he has a staph infection ahead of his fight with Paddy Pimblett at UFC 324.” – ESPN
“Paddy Pimblett still wants Ilia Topuria for undisputed.” – Paddy Pimblett
What to Expect Moving Forward
The outcome of this fight will disrupt the lightweight division’s status quo, potentially forcing Ilia Topuria’s hand upon his return or reshuffling contenders for the ultimate title. The tension surrounding the division, marked by Topuria’s absence and Pimblett’s rising prominence, sets the stage for pivotal changes in UFC lightweight rankings.
As fans in the UK prepare to tune in late into the night and US viewers settle in for the new Paramount+ broadcast era, UFC 324 is poised to be a defining event early in the year, spotlighting both established veterans and dynamic rising stars in the sport.
