The UFC is poised to kick off 2026 with an electrifying event on Paramount+, highlighting a significant main event featuring Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett competing for the interim lightweight championship. Set to take place at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on Saturday night, the main card is scheduled to start at 9 p.m. ET.
With the current lightweight champion, Ilia Topuria, temporarily stepping away from the sport, Gaethje—a former interim champion and two-time title challenger—looks to reclaim his spot at the top. Known for his thrilling fighting style, Gaethje is eager to face Pimblett, who has been vocal about his ambitions of climbing the ranks in the lightweight division. A victory for Pimblett could set the stage for an explosive future matchup against Topuria.
The co-main event is equally compelling, featuring former bantamweight champion Sean O’Malley taking on Song Yadong. Both fighters aim to establish their relevance in a rapidly evolving title landscape, especially after Petr Yan’s surprising upset over Merab Dvalishvili at UFC 323. O’Malley, having previously defeated Yan in a non-title bout, could position himself back into title contention with a victory after his recent losses.
This UFC 324 event marks a new chapter for the organization as it debuts on Paramount+, ensuring that viewers gain unprecedented access to all 13 numbered events and 30 Fight Nights up to 2033. Subscribers will also enjoy a vast library of archived fights, interviews, and original series that delve into the sport’s history and star athletes.
In terms of fight card excitement, UFC 324 does not disappoint, promising additional high-stakes matchups. Heavyweight contenders Derrick Lewis and Waldo Cortes-Acosta will also clash, with both looking to capitalize on the absence of champion Tom Aspinall. Women’s flyweight champion Valentina Shevchenko is likely to keep a keen eye on the fight between Natalia Silva and former champion Rose Namajunas, as it may determine her next title challenger.
The preliminary card is expected to feature intense bouts that enrich the overall event experience, including a highly anticipated opener between Arnold Allen and Jean Silva, both known for their finishing prowess.
For those eager to watch, early prelims begin at 5 p.m. ET, followed by prelims at 7 p.m. ET, leading into the main card at 9 p.m. ET. Paramount+ subscriptions are available at various price points without any additional fees for UFC events, making it easier for fans to engage with this thrilling sport.
As UFC transitions into this new broadcasting partnership, the anticipation surrounding UFC 324 promises not only an exhilarating night of fights but also a fresh era for the promotion and its followers.