The highly anticipated UFC 324 is set to ignite the octagon in a thrilling showdown, leaving fans on the edge of their seats! But will it live up to the hype?
UFC 324 marks the organization's return to action in 2026, and it's shaping up to be an unforgettable night. On January 24th, the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas will host a lightweight clash for the ages as Justin Gaethje, the former interim UFC lightweight champion and BMF titleholder, steps into the cage with the charismatic Paddy 'The Baddy' Pimblett. This interim lightweight title fight promises to be a true test of skill and endurance.
And that's not all! In the co-main event, the bantamweight division takes center stage. Sean 'Suga' O'Malley, the current UFC bantamweight champion and No. 3 ranked contender, aims to solidify his dominance against the formidable Song 'Kung Fu Kid' Yadong, ranked No. 5. This bout is a must-watch for any MMA enthusiast.
Here's what you need to know about the event:
Event Details:
- Date: January 24, 2026
- Venue: T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada
- Main Card Start Time: 9 pm ET / 6 pm PT
- Prelims: 7 pm ET / 4 pm PT
- Early Prelims: 5 pm ET / 2 pm PT
Main Card:
- Main Event - Interim Lightweight Title Bout: Justin Gaethje () vs Paddy Pimblett (154 lbs)
- Co-Main Event - Bantamweight Bout: Sean O'Malley (135.5 lbs) vs Song Yadong (136 lbs)
Other Featured Bouts:
- Heavyweight: Waldo Cortes-Acosta () vs Derrick Lewis (263.5 lbs)
- Women's Flyweight: Natalia Silva (126 lbs) vs Rose Namajunas (125.5 lbs)
- Featherweight: Arnold Allen (145.5 lbs) vs Jean Silva (146 lbs)
Early Prelims:
- Lightweight: Michael Johnson (156 lbs) vs Alexander Hernandez (155.5 lbs)
- Heavyweight: Josh Hokit (234.5 lbs) vs Denzel Freeman (257.5 lbs)
- Welterweight: Adam Fugitt (171 lbs) vs Ty Miller (170 lbs)
Weight Cut Controversies:
- Figueiredo exceeded the bantamweight limit and will forfeit 25% of his purse to his opponent, but the fight will proceed as planned.
- Perez also missed the flyweight limit and faces the same penalty, but his fight will go ahead.
Medical Withdrawal:
- Unfortunately, the bout between Cameron Smotherman and Ricky Turcios has been canceled due to a medical issue with Smotherman.
Don't miss the chance to witness UFC 324: Gaethje vs. Pimblett live! The main card will be exclusively available on Paramount+, ensuring you don't miss a second of the action. And remember, the early bird catches the worm, so set your reminders for the prelims and early prelims!
What are your predictions for this stacked card? Will Gaethje reclaim his title, or will Pimblett pull off an upset? Share your thoughts and join the discussion!
