Las Vegas, Nevada — The highly anticipated interim lightweight title bout featuring Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett is set to headline UFC 324 on Jan. 24 at the T-Mobile Arena. UFC CEO Dana White announced the matchup, which will mark a new chapter for the organization as it kicks off its broadcast partnership with Paramount+.

The event will commence at 9 p.m. ET. This interim title fight comes on the heels of current champion Ilia Topuria’s decision to take personal leave from the sport. Topuria, who holds an undefeated record, announced he needed time away to attend to family matters. He emphasized his intention not to hinder the division’s progression in his statement.

Gaethje, notably active in the lightweight division, last faced Rafael Fiziev in March, winning by decision. The seasoned fighter, however, had hinted at potential retirement plans should he not secure a title matchup soon. His path to an interim title shot became tense after accepting a bout against Max Holloway in UFC 300, where he suffered a knockout loss.

Pimblett, a rising star from Liverpool, boasts an impressive 7-0 record in the UFC since joining in 2021, with notable victories over veterans like Tony Ferguson and Michael Chandler. His dynamic fighting style has rapidly garnered a substantial fan following as he emerges as a formidable contender in the lightweight class.

Following the interim title fight, the UFC 324 co-main event features a pivotal women’s bantamweight title defense. Champion Kayla Harrison will put her belt on the line against Amanda Nunes, who is making a comeback after retiring last year. This matchup adds to the excitement, showcasing top talents ready to take center stage.

Furthermore, UFC 324 promises an array of compelling fights, including a bout between former bantamweight champion Sean O’Malley and contender Song Yadong. Additionally, former champions Alexa Grasso and Rose Namajunas will clash at flyweight, contributing to a card filled with high-stakes encounters.

Heavyweight contenders Derrick Lewis and Waldo Cortes-Acosta will also be part of the lineup, alongside featherweights Arnold Allen and Jean Silva, who are eager to climb the ranks in their division. Enthusiasts can expect an electrifying night filled with intense matchups and potential paradigm shifts in various weight classes.

As the UFC readies itself for UFC 324 in January, fans eagerly anticipate not only the title fight but the implications these bouts could have for the future of the sport. Every matchup holds the promise of shaping the landscape of mixed martial arts in 2025 and beyond.