British MMA star Paddy Pimblett is poised for his first shot at UFC gold this evening as he clashes with Justin Gaethje in a highly anticipated interim lightweight championship bout. The main event of UFC 324 promises fireworks, with both fighters aiming to secure a future showdown against undisputed champion Ilia Topuria.
Paddy Pimblett's Rise to Title Contention
Since joining the UFC in 2021, Paddy Pimblett has rapidly ascended the lightweight rankings, bringing a dynamic and entertaining style to the octagon. The Liverpool native earned this title opportunity following a stunning knockout victory over Michael Chandler in April of last year. His opponent, Justin Gaethje, last fought in March, securing a decision win against Rafael Fiziev. This sets the stage for a compelling battle between two of the division's most formidable strikers.
What's at Stake in Las Vegas
While the interim belt is on the line, the implications extend far beyond tonight. With Ilia Topuria returning to action after a personal hiatus, the winner of Pimblett versus Gaethje is expected to challenge for the undisputed championship later this year. This adds significant pressure and prestige to an already electrifying matchup.
UFC 324 UK Start Time Schedule
The action unfolds at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, with UK fans needing to stay up late or set their alarms. The early prelims are scheduled to commence at approximately 10pm GMT on Saturday. The regular prelims will follow at 12am GMT on Sunday, leading into the main card at a revised start time of 2am GMT on Sunday.
In the headline bout, Paddy Pimblett is anticipated to make his walk to the cage around 4am GMT on Sunday, with Justin Gaethje following shortly after. Please note that all timings are approximate and may shift depending on the duration of the preceding undercard fights.
How to Watch UFC 324 in the United Kingdom
For viewers in the UK, the entire UFC 324 event will be broadcast live on TNT Sports Box Office. The pay-per-view is priced at £19.99 and is accessible through various platforms including discovery+, EE TV, Prime Video, Sky, and Virgin Media TV. Importantly, a TNT Sports subscription is not required to purchase this event.
This card also marks a new broadcasting chapter for the UFC in the United States, with Paramount+ now serving as the home for American fans following a recent partnership deal.
Full UFC 324 Fight Card
Main Card
- Paddy Pimblett vs Justin Gaethje
- Sean O'Malley vs Song Yadong
- Waldo Cortes-Acosta vs Derrick Lewis
- Natalia Silva vs Rose Namajunas
- Arnold Allen vs Jean Silva
Preliminary Card
- Umar Nurmagomedov vs Deiveson Figueiredo
- Ateba Gautier vs Andrey Pulyaev
- Nikita Krylov vs Modestas Bukauskas
Early Preliminary Card
- Alex Perez vs Charles Johnson
- Michael Johnson vs Alexander Hernandez
- Josh Hokit vs Denzel Freeman
- Ricky Turcios vs Cameron Smotherman
- Adam Fugitt vs Ty Miller
Fighters' Corner: Pre-Fight Comments
Justin Gaethje responded fiercely to Pimblett's previous criticisms, stating, "I love everything he’s been saying. He definitely sounds overconfident. He’s out here disrespecting legends like Dustin Poirier. I’m going to dog walk this English f*** on Saturday. Watch."
Paddy Pimblett remained characteristically confident, asserting, "He won’t be physically the same after this fight, I will. I’m going to put a beatdown on him like he’s never received and I can promise you that. When a contract with a name on it gets sent to me I sign it. I don’t turn down no fight."
