Paddy "The Baddy" Pimblett is set to fight Justin Gaethje in the main event of UFC 324 for the interim lightweight title. The blockbuster matchup takes place tomorrow, January 24, 2026 , at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Event Details

This high-stakes lightweight clash headlines UFC's kickoff to the 2026 calendar, streaming live on Paramount+. Doors open at 1:30 PM PT, with the main card starting around 8 PM PT (that's early prelims from 5 PM ET). Expect a 25-minute war as Gaethje's knockout power tests Pimblett's submission game and rising star power.

  • Date : Saturday, January 24, 2026
  • Location : T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada
  • Main Event : Justin Gaethje vs. Paddy Pimblett (Interim UFC Lightweight Title)
  • Why it shifted : Champion Ilia Topuria is out until later in 2026 due to personal reasons, paving the way for this interim bout.

Fight Background

Pimblett, the undefeated UK sensation from Liverpool, has been on a tear in the lightweight division, dazzling fans with slick grappling and charisma. Gaethje, the veteran brawler and former interim champ, brings relentless pressure and highlight-reel knockouts—think of their styles clashing like fire and gasoline. Early rumors floated Ilia Topuria vs. Pimblett, but UFC pivoted to maximize the Paramount+ debut with this fan-friendly pairing.

Experts are split: Dustin Poirier leans Gaethje for his experience in deep waters, while others hype Pimblett's youth and grappling edge. Dan Hooker predicts Gaethje's takedown defense holds firm.

Viewing Guide

Time (ET)| Card| UK Time (BST)| Notes
---|---|---|---
5:00 PM| Early Prelims| 10:00 PM| ESPN+/UFC Fight Pass
7:00 PM| Prelims| 12:00 AM| ESPN+/UFC Fight Pass
10:00 PM| Main Card| 3:00 AM| Paramount+ 58

Trending Buzz

Forums and MMA circles are electric—Pimblett's "Baddy" persona has UK fans dreaming of glory, while Gaethje's fanbase eyes a statement win. Some speculate Pimblett could force a Topuria unification later in 2026 if he triumphs. Picture the walkouts: fireworks, Scouse anthems, and pure chaos.

TL;DR : Paddy fights Gaethje Jan 24, 2026, Las Vegas —main event UFC 324, live on Paramount+. Don't miss it.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.