Overview
- UFC 324 on Jan. 24 in Las Vegas will feature Justin Gaethje vs. Paddy Pimblett for the interim lightweight title on the promotion’s Paramount+ debut.
- Dana White said Arman Tsarukyan’s weigh-in headbutt and prior issues, including a fan‑punching fine and a late title‑fight withdrawal, factored into passing him over.
- Tsarukyan says he has not been asked to be the official backup and will not cut weight without a fight, as he stays active with grappling and a Real American Freestyle bout.
- Gaethje’s coach Trevor Wittman called this “our last run,” indicating Gaethje is likely to retire if he loses to Pimblett.
- The winner is expected to unify with champion Ilia Topuria when he returns, though timelines remain uncertain as rhetoric intensifies among top lightweights.