Overview
- Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett meet for the interim lightweight belt on Jan. 24 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, streaming on Paramount+.
- The interim title was created after reigning champion Ilia Topuria stepped away for personal reasons, with plans to resume competition later in 2026.
- Early betting lists Pimblett as the favorite over Gaethje (DraftKings: Pimblett -230, Gaethje +190), highlighting his seven-fight UFC unbeaten run.
- Pimblett says he intends to keep the fight standing and predicts an early finish, while also claiming a notable size edge on Topuria at 155 pounds.
- Gaethje clarifies retirement chatter came largely from his manager, saying he still expects a few more meaningful fights even as he acknowledges "the end is near" at 37.