In a stunning revelation that has sent shockwaves through the mixed martial arts community, UFC CEO Dana White unveiled a spectacular fight card for UFC 324 during a national television broadcast on Thursday night. The announcement came during halftime of the Chiefs vs Cowboys Thanksgiving game on CBS, marking a strategic move to reach millions of sports fans across America.
Massive Main Event: Interim Lightweight Title Clash
The headline bout features an explosive interim lightweight championship fight between British sensation Paddy Pimblett and American powerhouse Justin Gaethje. This high-stakes confrontation became necessary after reigning champion Ilia Topuria unexpectedly announced his departure from the sport earlier on Thursday to address pressing family matters. Topuria revealed on social media platform X that he is navigating through a challenging period and needs to prioritize his children.
Both fighters bring impressive credentials to this championship opportunity. Pimblett arrives with significant momentum following his decisive victory over Michael Chandler, extending his winning streak. Meanwhile, Gaethje last demonstrated his elite skills with a dominant performance against Rafael Fiziev, cementing his status as a top contender.
Legendary Comeback and Bantamweight Showdown
In what promises to be an historic moment, Amanda Nunes will emerge from retirement to defend her legacy against Kayla Harrison. Nunes, widely regarded as the greatest female fighter in MMA history, hasn't competed since her retirement in June 2023 after defeating Julianna Peña. Dana White expressed enormous excitement about this matchup, describing it as the most significant women's fight the organization has ever presented.
The bantamweight division also features a crucial contest between Sean O'Malley and Chinese standout Song Yadong. O'Malley seeks redemption after suffering back-to-back losses against Merab Dvalishvili, including a unanimous decision at UFC 306 and a submission defeat in June. Song Yadong remains one of the division's most active and dangerous competitors, setting the stage for an electrifying clash.
New Broadcast Partnership and Scheduling Changes
UFC 324 marks the beginning of a new broadcasting era with Paramount, as confirmed by Dana White during his announcement. The event will implement revised timing with the main card commencing at 9 p.m. ET, shifting one hour earlier than previous events. This scheduling adjustment aims to better accommodate global audiences, including fans in India who frequently stay up late to watch UFC events.
The complete fight card announcement comes as welcome news for MMA enthusiasts who have been eagerly anticipating major matchups. With Topuria's temporary absence creating championship uncertainty in the lightweight division, the winner between Gaethje and Pimblett will eventually face the returning champion. This development has undoubtedly captured the attention of other top lightweights including Arman Tsarukyan, Charles Oliveira, and Max Holloway, who will be monitoring the interim title picture closely.
The T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas will host this spectacular event on January 24, 2026, promising an unforgettable night of world-class mixed martial arts action that will shape multiple divisions for years to come.
