Paddy Pimblett believes there may be more than one path to becoming the undisputed UFC lightweight champion, and he’s not ruling out an unconventional route. The No. 5 lightweight contender is quietly preparing for an interim title shot at UFC 324 in January, where he will face Justin Gaethje in what arena officials are billing as the kickoff to 2026 and the Paramount+ era.
Topuria, who currently holds the belt, was expected to defend it early in 2026. However, personal matters outside the cage have led him to pause his fighting plans, with a UFC hiatus announced for the time being. Dana White has stated that Pimblett or Gaethje will unify the title once Topuria is ready to return, but Pimblett believes the clock is already ticking on Topuria’s hold on the crown—even if Topuria never steps back into the octagon.
This isn’t Pimblett’s only aim. He’s consistently targeted Topuria throughout 2025, leveraging their fiery history and a high-profile face-off at UFC 317 to push for a title shot. In an interesting twist, Topuria has publicly said he’d root for Pimblett over Gaethje, hoping for the chance to finally face the Liverpudlian in a unification bout. If Pimblett wins at UFC 324, he suggests Topuria could be pressed to return within a few months to defend or vacate, potentially opening the door for Pimblett to assume undisputed status without another fight.
Pimblett also made clear his focus isn’t on Topuria’s personal life. Speaking with ESPN Deportes’ Carlos Contreras Legaspi, he said he wishes Topuria well on his personal matters but his sole concern is stepping into the octagon and defeating him. He did acknowledge the possibility that if Topuria does not come back by mid-year, a belt vacancy could occur, and Pimblett could ascend to undisputed champion without a title defense.
Ahead of a potential unification, Pimblett is set to collide with Gaethje in what he calls a “100 percent” guarantee that the fight will end decisively, with no judges needed. He described Gaethje as a legend and a tremendous honor to share the cage with, while insisting that when the bell rings, his focus will be on delivering a relentless beatdown. Pimblett’s overall UFC record includes wins by knockout, submission, and decision, reflecting his versatility and confidence heading into the Gaethje showdown.
What outcome would surprise you most in the UFC 324 main event? Do you think Topuria might vacate the title rather than return, potentially reshaping the division’s championship picture? Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the discussion. Would you prefer Pimblett’s route to undisputed status to hinge on a direct title defense against Topuria, or do you see a longer, multi-fight path as more likely to solidify his claim?
