Overview
- Gaethje vs. Pimblett headlines UFC 324 for the interim lightweight title on January 24 in Las Vegas, with the winner expected to target a unification bout when the undisputed champion returns.
- Faber says Gaethje thrives in punishing exchanges and has the tools to keep the fight in his preferred phase, which he believes tilts the matchup.
- Pimblett insists he will not shoot early for takedowns and plans to stand and trade, framing the bout as a striker-versus-striker test despite his grappling pedigree.
- Sidelined champion Ilia Topuria has publicly supported the interim matchup and expressed confidence that Pimblett can push Gaethje.
- Coverage highlights Gaethje’s collegiate wrestling credentials and durability, including a WSOF title defense against Nick Newell in which he rallied to a stoppage win.