Gaethje Edges Pimblett, Captures Interim Lightweight Title in UFC's Paramount Era Debut
Justin Gaethje outworked Paddy Pimblett over five rounds to win the interim lightweight title at UFC 324, derailing UFC's plan to turn Pimblett into a breakout star as the Paramount era begins. The result raises questions about Pimblett's ceiling and elevates Gaethje as the reigning interim champ, while elites like Topuria and Tsarukyan loom as future challenges; the event also marked a notable pay-raise for fighters, signaling a broader shift in the promotion.
