Overview
- UFC 324 remains set for Jan. 24 in Las Vegas with Justin Gaethje vs. Paddy Pimblett for the interim lightweight title, with the winner expected to face champion Ilia Topuria upon his return.
- Dana White said Tsarukyan’s weigh-in headbutt played a role "100 percent" in passing him over for the interim shot, noting broader concerns that include a prior late withdrawal and a Nevada commission fine for striking a fan.
- Gaethje’s coach Trevor Wittman told ESPN the fight is "our last run" and indicated Gaethje could retire if he loses, though the team is not treating it as a formal retirement bout.
- Paddy Pimblett’s crude comments about Dan Hooker prompted Hooker to end their friendship on social media and warn, "It’s on sight," escalating tensions around the event.
- Arman Tsarukyan is staying active in grappling and, per Hype FC’s CEO, has discussed a February match with Dustin Poirier that has not been signed.