Justin Gaethje Aims to Derail Paddy Pimblett vs Ilia Topuria Title Plans with Interim Clash at UFC 324
Justin Gaethje is scheduled to fight top lightweight Paddy Pimblett in a highly anticipated interim championship main event bout tonight. The clash headlines UFC 324, marking the promotion’s first-ever UFC-Paramount card after the major broadcasting deal was announced.
Both fighters generate massive excitement because their styles emphasize violence and nonstop action inside the Octagon every single time. With lightweight champion Ilia Topuria sidelined by personal issues, the UFC opted to create an interim title fight.
The winner between Pimblett and Gaethje secures interim gold and a future undisputed title opportunity in 2026 against the reigning champion. Fans crave a Topuria versus Pimblett showdown due to the history, insults, and rivalry that previously fueled online chaos. However, Gaethje aims to derail those plans by defeating Pimblett and claiming the spotlight himself.
“I’m going to win, I’m going to spoil. I know that the fans probably want Paddy and Ilia like they wanted Tony and Khabib, and I’m going to f**k it up,” said Justin Gaethje via Papa Legaspi.
Justin Gaethje has already achieved this once, brutally stopping Tony Ferguson to capture the interim lightweight title in 2020. That victory earned Gaethje a showdown with Khabib Nurmagomedov, widely regarded as the most dominant lightweight champion ever in MMA.
However, his title dreams stalled as Nurmagomedov submitted him decisively, showcasing elite grappling and relentless championship composure. Gaethje later challenged Charles Oliveira for undisputed gold but suffered another submission loss in heartbreaking fashion.
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Despite setbacks, the ‘Highlight’ remains a dangerous figure, evolving strategically while maintaining the violence that defines his celebrated fighting identity. Now focused and motivated, Gaethje is determined to finally secure the undisputed title before retiring from UFC.
Justin Gaethje talks about a title potential clash with Ilia Topuria
Ilia Topuria has established himself as one of the most dominant champions in recent times through an elite skillset. He shocked fans by knocking out Alexander Volkanovski, Max Holloway, and Charles Oliveira across divisions, proving his terrifying finishing ability.
On top of that, the fighter uses his trash-talking to get into his opponent’s head and take advantage. When discussing a potential matchup, Justin Gaethje admitted fear of facing ‘El Matador’ but embraced it as powerful motivation.
“It comes down to not making mistakes against a guy like that. Not eating his right hand, not walking into his right hand. His two-three is one of the best combinations I’ve seen in this sport. It’s a beautiful challenge, and I love how scared I’ll be,” Justin Gaethje continued.
Topuria has stated he does not want to fight Gaethje, calling him old and labeling him the easiest matchup. The champion prefers facing Paddy Pimblett instead, with everything expected to become clear following the UFC 324 main event.
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