Everything You Need to Know About UFC 324: Gaethje vs. Pimblett

UFC 324 isn’t just another numbered event it’s a collision point for eras, identities, and futures inside the Octagon. From the launch of a new broadcast era to an interim lightweight title fight loaded with consequence, this card carries weight far beyond fight night.

For fighters and fans who live the grind who understand discipline, sacrifice, and the cost of championship ambition UFC 324 represents everything that makes MMA unforgiving and unforgettable.

UFC 324 at a Glance

Event: UFC 324: Gaethje vs. Pimblett
Date: January 24, 2026
Venue: T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas
Main Event: Interim UFC Lightweight Championship
Broadcast (U.S.): Paramount+ (no PPV)

This event blends legacy, opportunity, and risk across multiple divisions—and does so under the spotlight of major change.

When & Where Is UFC 324?

Date & Location

UFC 324 takes place on Saturday, January 24, 2026, inside T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas—a venue synonymous with title fights and defining moments.

Start Times

Early Prelims: 5:00 PM ET / 2:00 PM PT
Prelims: 7:00 PM ET / 4:00 PM PT
Main Card: 9:00 PM ET / 6:00 PM PT

International viewing note:

UK Main Card: 2:00 AM GMT (Sunday)

How to Watch UFC 324

United States

For the first time in years, a UFC numbered event is not pay-per-view in the United States.

Entire card streams live on Paramount+
No additional PPV purchase required

This marks the beginning of a new UFC broadcast era—one aimed at broader access without diluting the stakes.

International Viewing

UK: TNT Sports Box Office (£19.99)
Canada: Traditional PPV providers
Australia & Latin America: Paramount+
Other regions: UFC Fight Pass or local broadcasters

Main Event Breakdown: Justin Gaethje vs. Paddy Pimblett

Interim Lightweight Championship (155 lbs)

This is more than a title fight—it’s a test of identity.

Justin Gaethje

Former interim champion
One of the most violent and respected fighters of his generation
Known for pressure, leg kicks, and unbreakable resolve

At 37, Gaethje isn’t chasing hype—he’s chasing closure. Another title run may be his last chance to turn relentless sacrifice into undisputed gold.

Paddy Pimblett

Undefeated in the UFC
Global fan magnet with real momentum
Dangerous grappler with improving striking

Pimblett isn’t here to survive. He’s here to validate belief; his own, and that of a fanbase waiting for a new standard-bearer.

What’s at Stake

Interim UFC Lightweight Title
Guaranteed shot at undisputed gold
Legacy vs. momentum

Co-Main Event Spotlight: Sean O’Malley vs. Song Yadong

Bantamweight Division Clash

Former champion vs. rising contender
Precision vs. pressure
Title implications without a belt on the line

O’Malley fights to reclaim position. Song fights to break through the ceiling. Neither can afford hesitation.

Titles on the Line and What Changed

Confirmed

Interim Lightweight Championship — Gaethje vs. Pimblett

Postponed

Women’s Bantamweight Title: Kayla Harrison vs. Amanda Nunes
(Injury forced delay, not cancellation)

Even with one title removed, the card’s consequences remain massive across multiple divisions.

Biggest Storylines Heading Into Fight Night

Launch of the Paramount+ era
Gaethje’s potential final championship run
Pimblett’s leap from prospect to contender
Divisions reshuffling under interim titles
Veterans defending legacy against rising threats

Why UFC 324 Matters

Shapes the 2026 lightweight title picture
Signals how the UFC will reach fans moving forward
Tests whether experience still overcomes momentum

For fighters who train like every round matters because this card does.

UFC 324 Ticket Options

Ticket Tier	Location	Typical Price Range	Perks / Notes
General Admission	Upper levels	$60 – $120	Most affordable; basic access
Lower Level / Mid-Range Seats	Lower bowl / mid-arena	$120 – $350	Better view of the action
Premium Seating	Floor level / front rows	$350 – $800+	Close to the cage with excellent sightlines
VIP / Experience Packages	Varies (best seats)	$800 – $2000+	May include lounges, early entry, memorabilia, and fighter meet-ups

1. Standard / General Admission

Best for: Fans on a budget or those who just want to be in the arena.

Location: Upper-level seats farther from the Octagon.

Price Range: Most affordable.

Perks: Access to all general areas; usually no extras.

2. Lower Level / Mid-Range Seating

Best for: Fans who want a better view without premium prices.

Location: Mid-floor or lower-bowl seating around the Octagon.

Price Range: Moderate.

Perks: Closer to the action with solid sightlines.

3. Premium / VIP Tickets

Best for: Fans who want an elevated experience.

Location: Close-in seats around the Octagon.

Price Range: High.

Perks: Often include amenities such as:

Early entry
Access to premium lounges
Exclusive merchandise
Complimentary food & drinks (depending on package)

4. VIP Packages & Experiences

Best for: Fans looking for a full event experience.

Examples of add-ons include:

Meet & greets with fighters
Photo opportunities
Signed memorabilia
Commemorative laminates
VIP hospitality access

UFC 324 In-Depth

UFC 324 is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated MMA events in recent memory, offering something for both casual fans and hardcore aficionados alike. It marks a historic shift in how fans will watch the UFC, features high-stakes matchups across multiple divisions, and promises a night of explosive action.

Below, we break down all the key details—from event logistics to fight storylines—so you’ll be fully informed and ready for fight night.

Why UFC 324 Is Different

Interim Lightweight Title at Stake: A five-round main event at 155 pounds crowns an interim champion.
The Paramount+ Era Begins: No U.S. pay-per-view; the entire card is included with a streaming subscription.
Women’s Bantamweight Title Postponed: Amanda Nunes’ highly anticipated return was delayed due to injury.

1. Event Overview (Quick Summary)

UFC 324: Gaethje vs. Pimblett takes place on January 24, 2026, at the iconic T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The event is headlined by a blockbuster interim lightweight championship bout between fan-favorite brawler Justin Gaethje and UK sensation Paddy “The Baddy” Pimblett.

Originally, the card was set to feature two championship fights, including the return of women’s MMA legend Amanda Nunes after a three-year retirement. Even with that bout postponed, UFC 324 remains stacked with championship implications, rising stars, and legacy-defining matchups across multiple divisions.

Adding to the significance, this event marks the beginning of the UFC’s new broadcast era on Paramount+. For American fans, that means watching a numbered UFC event without an extra pay-per-view fee—a major shift in how the sport is delivered.

In short: UFC 324 combines elite competition, a major interim title fight, and a groundbreaking broadcast change, making it a must-watch event for MMA fans.

2. When & Where Is UFC 324?

Date

Saturday, January 24, 2026. This will be the first UFC numbered event of 2026, setting the tone for the year ahead.

Venue

T-Mobile Arena, Paradise, Nevada (Las Vegas). Known as the fight capital of the UFC, Las Vegas provides the perfect backdrop for a card of this magnitude. The 20,000-seat arena is expected to be electric.

City & Country

Las Vegas, United States (Paradise, NV—home of the Las Vegas Strip).

Start Times

Early Prelims: 5:00 PM ET / 2:00 PM PT
(Featuring up-and-coming talent, streaming online)
Preliminary Card: 7:00 PM ET / 4:00 PM PT
Main Card: 9:00 PM ET / 6:00 PM PT

Due to the West Coast location, the main card begins at 9:00 PM Eastern Time, which translates to 6:00 PM local time in Las Vegas.

UK fans: The main card is expected to start at approximately 2:00 AM GMT on Sunday, January 25.

Special Location Notes

While T-Mobile Arena is a familiar UFC venue, UFC 324 stands out as the first event under a new media deal. Unlike traditional Las Vegas pay-per-views, this card will not require a PPV purchase in the U.S., instead airing entirely via streaming.

The buzz surrounding this broadcast change—combined with the star power on the card and championship implications—has driven heavy ticket demand. A sold-out arena and an electric atmosphere are all but guaranteed.

3. How to Watch UFC 324

One of the most important questions for fight fans is simple: how can you watch UFC 324 live? Here’s everything you need to know.

United States

UFC 324 will air live exclusively on Paramount+ in the United States. This is not a pay-per-view event.

Paramount+ subscribers can watch the entire card—including the main card—at no additional cost beyond their subscription. This marks a major shift from the past seven years, when UFC numbered events required a PPV purchase through ESPN+.

Under the new broadcast rights deal, numbered UFC events like UFC 324 are now included with a Paramount+ subscription. Fans simply need to tune in through the Paramount+ app or website at the scheduled start times.

Note: While select UFC events may air on CBS under the new deal, UFC 324’s main card is exclusive to streaming in the U.S.

Prelims Streaming

The early prelims and prelims will also stream on Paramount+ in the United States, starting at 5:00 PM ET.

Traditionally, early prelims have been available on UFC Fight Pass. Under the new deal, Fight Pass may still carry early prelims for international audiences or viewers without Paramount+, but U.S. fans can watch every fight on Paramount+.

Bottom line: In the U.S., just fire up Paramount+ on January 24—no $80 PPV charge required. International viewers should double-check whether their region offers the event via streaming or traditional PPV so nothing is missed on fight night.

4. Full Fight Card Breakdown

UFC 324 boasts a deep and well-balanced fight card, packed with meaningful matchups from top to bottom. The event is divided into three sections: Early Prelims, Prelims, and the Main Card.

Main Card Highlights

The main card features five high-profile bouts, including an interim title fight, appearances by former champions, a heavyweight slugfest, and clashes between top contenders with title implications.

Preliminary Gems

The prelims are stacked with intrigue and should not be overlooked. Fans can expect a potential bantamweight title eliminator, the arrival of fast-rising prospects, and action from fan-favorite veterans.

Several former champions and undefeated up-and-comers are spread throughout the undercard, making the earlier portions of the event just as compelling as the main card.

Main Card (Paramount+ – 9:00 PM ET)

To launch the Paramount+ era in style, the UFC has loaded the main card with recognizable names and high-stakes matchups. Below is the official main card lineup, featuring the biggest fights of the night.

Fighters	Records & Notes	Fight Overview
Justin Gaethje (26–5) vs. Paddy Pimblett (23–3)	Gaethje: 26–5 (former interim champ) Pimblett: 23–3 (7–0 UFC)	Interim Lightweight Championship. Veteran KO artist vs. brash rising star; high stakes for the division’s next title shot.
Sean O’Malley (18–3, 1 NC) vs. Song Yadong (20–7–1, 1 NC)	O’Malley: 18–3 (former champ) Yadong: 20–7–1 (surging contender)	Co-Main Event. O’Malley seeks to rebound and retain contender status; Song is a heavy-hitter on the rise. Likely title eliminator implications.
Waldo Cortes-Acosta (10–1) vs. Derrick Lewis (27–13, 1 NC)	Cortes-Acosta: 10–1 Lewis: 27–13 (Knockout record-holder)	Heavyweight Showdown. A classic “prospect vs. legend” fight – Lewis is a fan-favorite KO king testing if Cortes-Acosta is for real. Expect fireworks.
Natália Silva (16–5–1) vs. Rose Namajunas (11–6)	Silva: 16–5–1 (on win streak) Namajunas: 11–6 (former 2x champ at 115)	Contenders’ Bout. Rose “Thug” Namajunas moves up to flyweight to face a streaking Silva. Originally slated for prelims, now elevated to main card. Possible title shot for the winner.
Arnold Allen (20–3) vs. Jean Silva (16–3)	Allen: 20–3 (#4 ranked FW) Jean Silva: 16–3 (Brazilian prospect)	Main Card Opener. Elite British contender vs. knockout artist newcomer. A win keeps Allen in the title mix, while Silva could break into the rankings in a big way.

Preliminary Card (Paramount+ – 7:00 PM ET)

The prelims for UFC 324 are exceptionally strong—hardcore fans have already circled several of these fights as must-watch.

Notable matchups on the preliminary card include appearances by a former champion, rising prospects, and divisional standouts, promising high-paced action and potential breakout performances.

Fighters	Records & Notes	Fight Overview
Umar Nurmagomedov (19–1) vs. Deiveson Figueiredo (21–5–1)	Nurmagomedov: 19–1 (#4 BW) Figueiredo: 21–5–1 (former Flyweight champ)	High-Stakes Bantamweight Bout. Khabib’s cousin vs. ex-flyweight champ. Touted as a potential #1 contender fight at 135 lbs. A classic grappler vs. power-puncher matchup.
Ateba Gautier (8–0) vs. Andrey Pulyaev (15–2)	Gautier: 8–0 (debut, heavy favorite) Pulyaev: 15–2 (debut)	Prospects Clash. Two newcomers face off; Gautier is a highly regarded undefeated prospect (odds makers have him as a big favorite). Early look at future middleweight talent.
Nikita Krylov (29–11) vs. Modestas Bukauskas (15–6)	Krylov: 29–11 (ranked veteran) Bukauskas: 15–6 (former Cage Warriors champ)	205-lb Duel. Krylov is a longtime contender looking to bounce back; Bukauskas returned to the UFC and is on a win streak. A win could propel the victor toward the rankings.
Michael Johnson (21–19) vs. Alexander Hernandez (15–6)	Johnson: 21–19 (veteran striker) Hernandez: 15–6 (explosive starter)	Lightweight Veterans Collide. Two fighters known for fast hands meet in what could be a sleeper Fight of the Night. Both have lots of UFC experience and are fighting to stay relevant at 155.
Alex Perez (24–8) vs. Charles Johnson (13–4)	Perez: 24–8 (former title challenger) Johnson: 13–4 (up-and-comer)	Flyweight Tilt. Perez is a former UFC title challenger at flyweight, trying to regain momentum against “InnerG” Johnson, a well-rounded threat. Can Perez get his first win since 2020?
Josh Hokit (1–0) vs. Denzel Freeman (6–2)	Hokit: 1–0 (ex-football player) Freeman: 6–2 (knockout power)	Heavyweight Prospects. Hokit, a former college football fullback and wrestling standout, makes his UFC debut. Freeman is also new and packs KO power. A classic big-boy brawl to kick off the night.
Ricky Turcios (12–3) vs. Cameron Smotherman (8–3)	Turcios: 12–3 (TUF winner) Smotherman: 8–3 (exciting striker)	Bantamweight Thriller. Turcios, winner of The Ultimate Fighter, brings an unorthodox style and endless energy; Smotherman is a slugger who will happily trade punches. Expect a wild scrap.
Ty Miller (6–0) vs. Adam Fugitt (9–5)	Miller: 6–0 (debut, DWCS alum) Fugitt: 9–5 (1–2 UFC)	Welterweight Debut. “Thriller” Ty Miller is an undefeated prospect from Dana White’s Contender Series making his UFC debut. He faces Fugitt, a tough veteran spoiler. This fight will show if the hype behind Miller is real.

Fight Storylines and Titles at UFC 324

(Fight records reflect each fighter’s overall MMA record. UFC records or notable achievements are noted where relevant.)

Storylines Across the Card

Every fight on UFC 324 has a narrative. The Main Card is stacked with high-profile matchups and divisional significance:

An interim championship bout (Gaethje vs. Pimblett).
Former champion Sean O’Malley in a dangerous fight.
Heavyweight fan-favorite Derrick Lewis facing a rising contender.
Women’s flyweight showdown: Rose Namajunas vs. Natália Silva.
Ranked featherweight battle with implications for title contention.

The Prelims are equally compelling and could serve as a Fight Night main card on their own. Highlights include:

Umar Nurmagomedov vs. Deiveson Figueiredo – a dominant bantamweight versus a former flyweight champ in his bantamweight debut.
Returning veterans like Nikita Krylov and Michael Johnson.
Ultimate Fighter winners, including Ricky Turcios.
Hot prospects such as Ty Miller (welterweight) and Ateba Gautier (middleweight).

Why you should care: UFC 324 caters to both casual and hardcore fans. Casual viewers will recognize big names like Gaethje, Pimblett, O’Malley, Lewis, and Rose Namajunas. Hardcore fans will appreciate technical intrigue in fights like Nurmagomedov vs. Figueiredo and the debut of rising stars. Many bouts carry high stakes—title shots, rankings, and careers are on the line. Early prelims also feature storylines: Can former title challenger Alex Perez get back on track? Which heavyweights will emerge as future contenders?

From the first prelim to the main event, UFC 324 is packed with meaningful, entertaining fights. Tune in early for potential breakout performances and “Fight of the Night” candidates.

Are Any Titles on the Line?

Yes – UFC 324 has one championship fight: the Interim UFC Lightweight Championship in the main event (Gaethje vs. Pimblett). Originally, two title fights were scheduled, including Kayla Harrison vs. Amanda Nunes for the women’s bantamweight belt, but that bout was postponed due to injury.

Interim Lightweight Title (155 lbs)

Justin Gaethje vs. Paddy Pimblett is officially for the interim belt. The winner claims interim champion status and earns a guaranteed shot at the undisputed lightweight title held by Ilia Topuria when he returns. The interim title was introduced because Topuria could not compete in early 2026. While not the full championship, it is highly prestigious and ensures the division continues moving forward. Historically, interim champions often unify the title against the reigning champ.

Women’s Bantamweight Title (135 lbs)

Kayla Harrison vs. Amanda Nunes was originally scheduled as the co-main event for Harrison’s bantamweight championship, but it will not take place at UFC 324. About 10 days before the event, Harrison suffered a serious neck injury (herniated discs) requiring surgery. The UFC postponed the fight rather than find a replacement. The matchup is expected to be rescheduled.

This would have been a historic fight: Olympic gold medalist Harrison defending against the returning GOAT Amanda Nunes. Its postponement shifts focus to the main event, but UFC 324 remains significant.

Other Fights

No other official UFC titles are on the line. High-profile bouts like Sean O’Malley vs. Song Yadong remain non-title three-round fights.

Interim vs. Undisputed

An interim champion serves as a temporary titleholder when the undisputed champion is inactive. Here, Ilia Topuria remains the official UFC Lightweight Champion, but the winner of Gaethje vs. Pimblett will hold the interim belt. Typically, a unification bout is scheduled later: Topuria vs. interim champion to determine the sole titleholder.

As of UFC 324, only one title fight will occur, the interim lightweight championship. Historically, this event is also notable because it is the first UFC numbered main event title fight in the U.S. not airing on pay-per-view since UFC 267 in 2021.

Additionally, Gaethje could make history by becoming the first fighter to win an interim UFC title twice in the same division.

Summary: UFC 324 features one championship fight, with sky-high stakes at the top of the card. Even without the women’s bantamweight title, this event delivers drama, legacy implications, and potential historic achievements.

Biggest Storylines Heading Into Fight Night

Launch of the Paramount+ era
Gaethje’s potential final championship run
Pimblett’s leap from prospect to contender
Divisions reshuffling under interim titles
Veterans protecting legacy against rising threats

UFC 324 is the kind of card that creates ripple effects — not just winners.

Dawn of the Paramount+ Era

UFC 324 is the first UFC card under the new TV/streaming deal after the UFC’s long partnership with ESPN ended. The entire card will air on Paramount+ in the U.S., at no extra cost to subscribers, including the main event. This is huge: it’s the first numbered UFC event in years not on pay-per-view for American viewers. Fans and media are watching closely to see how the Paramount+ debut performs.

Production updates include a new commentary team lineup, with veteran Joe Rogan continuing and new host Kate Scott joining. This broadcast shift provides a backdrop for all fights: UFC 324 is effectively a “test case” for the UFC’s future distribution model. Dana White and team have heavily promoted the card to ensure the successful launch of this new era.

Final Thoughts – Why You Shouldn’t Miss UFC 324

UFC 324 is more than just another fight night – it’s a landmark event that combines high-stakes fights, massive star power, and a turning point in UFC broadcast history.

Stacked Card Top to Bottom

The lineup is loaded: an interim championship main event, a co-main featuring a returning champion, legends like Derrick Lewis and Rose Namajunas, and rising stars like Umar Nurmagomedov and Natália Silva. Every fight has something significant on the line—be it a belt, title shot, ranking, or a fighter’s legacy.

Something for Everyone

Casual fans will enjoy the recognizable names and exciting matchups (Gaethje’s fights are never boring, O’Malley brings flair, Lewis swings for knockouts). Hardcore fans will appreciate technical intrigue, future implications, and breakout potential. UFC 324 balances entertainment for all levels of fans.

New Era, New Experience

This event marks the debut of UFC on Paramount+, widely accessible without the $80 PPV barrier for U.S. fans. The fresh presentation and broader reach make the viewing experience unique. Fans will remember being part of this first wave of the new UFC broadcast chapter.

Consequences and Cliffhangers

The outcomes at UFC 324 will shape some of the biggest stories of 2026:

Who will fight Topuria for the lightweight crown?
Will Amanda Nunes get her shot at Kayla Harrison?
Is Sean O’Malley still a superstar contender, or has Song Yadong claimed his spot?
Will Rose Namajunas position herself for a second-division title?

It’s like a season finale you want to watch live and be part of the conversation.

Unpredictable Drama

MMA is the theater of the unexpected. UFC 324 could produce title upsets, comebacks, or dramatic torch-passing moments. Expect memorable moments: Pimblett celebrating a belt, Gaethje giving a vintage post-fight scream, or O’Malley pulling off a highlight-reel knockout.

Conclusion

UFC 324: Gaethje vs. Pimblett is set to be a thrilling start to 2026. With history (first Paramount+ card), high-level fights, and big-event energy, fans will be entertained, informed, and on the edge of their seats. Grab your snacks, set up your screens, and enjoy an unforgettable night of fights.

UFC 324 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What time does UFC 324 start?

A: The event is on Jan. 24, 2026. Early Prelims start at 5:00 PM ET (2:00 PM PT), Prelims at 7:00 PM ET (4:00 PM PT), and the Main Card kicks off at 9:00 PM ET (6:00 PM PT). In the UK (GMT), that’s early prelims at 10 PM Saturday, main card at 2 AM Sunday.

Q: Is UFC 324 a PPV event?

A: Not in the United States. UFC 324 is the first event of the new deal that streams on Paramount+ at no additional pay-per-view cost for U.S. viewers. If you have Paramount+, you can watch live without buying a PPV. In other countries, it may be PPV – e.g., in the UK it’s on TNT Sports Box Office for £19.99. Check your local broadcaster. For U.S. fans: no PPV fee, just tune in on Paramount+.

Q: Who is headlining UFC 324?

A: The main event is Justin Gaethje vs. Paddy Pimblett for the interim UFC Lightweight Championship. Gaethje is a former interim champ and fan favorite known for slugfests, while Pimblett is a charismatic rising star from the UK. It’s a classic experience vs. youth matchup with a belt on the line.

Q: Were any other title fights on this card?

A: Originally yes, the co-main was supposed to be Kayla Harrison vs. Amanda Nunes for the Women’s Bantamweight Championship, but that fight was postponed due to Harrison’s injury. Now, the only title at UFC 324 is the interim lightweight title in the main event.

Q: How can I watch the prelims?

A: The prelims and early prelims are on Paramount+ (in the U.S.), starting from 5 PM ET. Internationally, prelims may be on UFC Fight Pass or the local channel that airs UFC Fight Nights. Check UFC’s broadcast listings if unsure.

Q: Any famous fighters returning or debuting?

A: Rose Namajunas returns in a new weight class (flyweight). Derrick Lewis returns after a highlight KO last year. Debuts include welterweight prospect Ty Miller, plus newcomers Gautier and Pulyaev at middleweight. Sean O’Malley is also returning after losing his title.

Q: Is Joe Rogan commentating at UFC 324?

A: Yes, Joe Rogan will be part of the commentary team alongside Jon Anik and likely Daniel Cormier. CBS Sports’ Kate Scott joins as desk host. The broadcast team is largely similar to the UFC on ESPN setup.

Q: Where can I see the official fight poster or more event info?

A: The official poster featuring Gaethje and Pimblett with the Paramount+ logo is available on UFC’s social media and news sites. UFC.com has a full event page with the fight card, and media outlets like ESPN and MMAJunkie provide previews and stories leading up to the event.

Tune in on January 24th and enjoy the fights – it’s going to be an explosive night that sets the tone for the rest of the year in MMA. Don’t blink during those fights, and have fun watching UFC 324!

Sources

UFC 324 – Official Event Page
UFC 324 at T-Mobile Arena
How to Watch UFC 324 (Paramount+)
UFC News: Blockbuster Card & Paramount+ Event
Reddit: UFC 324 Main Card Bout Order