Overview
- Justin Gaethje faces Paddy Pimblett for the interim lightweight title at UFC 324 on January 24 in Las Vegas.
- Gaethje said a future fight with Ilia Topuria would require mistake-free execution, praising Topuria’s right hand and 2–3 combination and admitting, “I love how scared I’ll be.”
- He vowed to “spoil” hopes for a Pimblett–Topuria showdown by winning at UFC 324, referencing past fan dream fights that never materialized.
- Topuria remains the undisputed champion on personal leave after alleging an extortion attempt and submitting evidence to authorities in Spain, with the UFC expected to match the interim winner with him upon his return.
- Gaethje emphasized his contract guarantees championship-level pay for the interim fight after earning less in his previous bout, and recent camp footage showed a risky head clash during a dodgeball drill.