Sun Jan 25 01:30:00 UTC 2026: # UFC 324: Gaethje vs. Pimblett Headlines First Event of 2026

Las Vegas, Nevada – The UFC kicked off its 2026 campaign with UFC 324 at the T-Mobile Arena on January 24, 2026. The main event featured a high-stakes lightweight clash between Justin Gaethje and Paddy “The Baddy” Pimblett for the interim UFC lightweight title. The co-main event saw Sean “Suga” O’Malley face off against Song “Kung Fu Kid” Yadong in a bantamweight bout with title implications.

The event, broadcast on Paramount+, also featured several other compelling matchups, though marred by weight issues with Figueiredo and Perez and the cancellation of Smotherman vs. Turcios due to a medical issue with Cameron Smotherman. The event’s prelims and early prelims preceded the main card, setting the stage for an action-packed night of fights.

Key Points

  • UFC 324 took place on January 24, 2026, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
  • Justin Gaethje fought Paddy Pimblett for the interim UFC lightweight title in the main event.
  • Sean O’Malley faced Song Yadong in the co-main event.
  • Figueiredo and Perez missed weight, forfeiting 25% of their purse to their respective opponents.
  • Smotherman vs. Turcios bout was cancelled due to a medical issue with Cameron Smotherman.
  • The event was broadcast live on Paramount+.

Key Takeaways

  • UFC continues its trend of starting the year with a major event in Las Vegas.
  • The interim lightweight title fight suggests potential injuries or contract disputes affecting the undisputed champion.
  • Weight cutting issues persist in the UFC, despite ongoing efforts to address them.
  • Sean O’Malley’s participation indicates the importance of bouncing back after setbacks in the bantamweight division.
  • The UFC strategically uses fan-favorite matchups to drive viewership on its streaming platform, Paramount+.

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