UFC 324 Fight Card Preview: Pimblett's Shot at Stardom and Gaethje's Legacy
This weekend marks UFC 324 in Las Vegas, featuring exciting matchups including Paddy Pimblett and Justin Gaethje. Prepare for a new era of UFC as fights transition from pay-per-view to streaming on Paramount+. Discover the key storylines ahead of the event.
For the first time since 2021, a numbered UFC event will not air on pay-per-view in the U.S. this Saturday when UFC 324 takes place in Las Vegas, marking the beginning of a new broadcasting era for the MMA leader. UFC’s seven-year media rights collaboration with Paramount Skydance eliminates domestic pay-per-view in favor of Paramount+.
In the main event at T-Mobile Arena, Justin Gaethje faces British star Paddy Pimblett for the interim lightweight championship. In a co-main event featuring top-five bantamweights, Sean O’Malley meets Song Yadong after Kayla Harrison’s injury postponed her awaited fight against Amanda Nunes.
Additional matchups include Derrick Lewis against Waldo Cortes-Acosta and Rose Namajunas taking on Natalia Silva. The initial fight on the main card will feature Jean Silva against Arnold Allen.
Key Storylines:
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Can Paddy Pimblett become the face of the Paramount era?
The charismatic 31-year-old from Liverpool is poised to step into the spotlight after Ilia Topuria’s divorce prevents him from headlining the first Paramount event. Pimblett must prove that he is an elite fighter, as he has faced challenges, including a controversial win over Jared Gordon in 2022. -
Justin Gaethje’s chance to cement his legacy
As a celebrated action fighter and former interim champion, Gaethje has yet to capture the undisputed title. At 37, he’s stated he will only fight for a title moving forward; a victory over Pimblett is crucial for his career aspirations. -
Bantamweight title contender auditions
Several fighters will aim to showcase their skills for potential title shots at UFC 324. O’Malley hopes to rebound from recent title losses while Umar Nurmagomedov seeks to assert dominance against Deiveson Figueiredo. -
Flyweight title ambitions for Natalia Silva
Silva, with her undefeated record in the UFC, aims to secure a title shot following her bout against Namajunas, who has faced difficulties since moving up in weight. -
Rising star Ateba Gautier
Gautier, known for his knockout power and impressive striking percentage, has become a member to watch within the middleweight ranks. His match against Andrey Pulyaev looks promising as he seeks top-10 contention.
