Overview
- Justin Gaethje told ESPN Deportes he trusts his instincts against Ilia Topuria and called the matchup a "beautiful challenge" that makes him feel scared.
- Gaethje highlighted Topuria’s danger spots, stressing he must avoid the champion’s right hand and praised Topuria’s sharp two–three combination.
- He meets Paddy Pimblett for the interim lightweight belt at UFC 324 on January 24 in Las Vegas, the promotion’s first event to air on Paramount+.
- Training footage showed Gaethje colliding heads with a partner during a dodgeball drill, underscoring a risk-heavy approach in camp.
- Topuria remains champion and has said he reported an alleged extortion attempt to Spanish authorities, while he also suggested the UFC favors a Pimblett–Topuria unification if Pimblett wins and left plans unclear if Gaethje prevails.