Justin Gaethje reclaimed the UFC interim lightweight title at UFC 324, setting up a likely unification showdown with Ilia Topuria once Topuria returns. Bettors should expect Gaethje’s odds to shorten for futures and unification markets; consider value on Gaethje in prop markets (KO/finish) if a Topuria fight is announced, while markets remain volatile awaiting an official timeline.
Gaethje Reclaims Interim UFC Lightweight Title but Questions Remain
Justin Gaethje won the interim UFC lightweight title after defeating Paddy Pimblett in the main event of UFC 324 in Las Vegas. The victory marks Gaethje’s second time holding an interim 155-pound belt and immediately raises questions about his status relative to reigning champion Ilia Topuria.
Gaethje’s Mixed Feelings About an Interim Belt
Gaethje celebrated the achievement but admitted the interim strap feels incomplete. “It’s quite the conundrum because I’m not satisfied because it is in my mind still second place,” he said, acknowledging the historical value of being a two-time interim champion while stressing that true validation requires beating the man currently atop the division.
Topuria’s Return and Unification Timeline
Champion Ilia Topuria has been sidelined as he deals with personal matters, and a return window has been mentioned around spring to early summer. There is no official unification date yet. If Topuria returns to face Gaethje, that bout would immediately become the marquee fight in the division and likely the biggest matchup available for both fighters in 2026.
Division Implications and What Fans Should Watch
Gaethje’s interim title move pushes him back to the front of the line for a championship shot and reshapes the lightweight landscape. A Topuria vs. Gaethje unification would determine the undisputed 155-pound king and settle lingering debates over who is the true champion.
Betting Outlook: How Punters Might Respond
Expect futures and unification markets to react quickly once Topuria’s return is confirmed. Gaethje’s win should shorten his odds in title markets and increase interest in outcome-specific props, especially finishes—Gaethje is often backed in KO/finish markets. Conservative bettors may wait for official scheduling to gauge value, while opportunistic bettors could target favorable props before the market fully adjusts.
What Comes Next
Gaethje has earned a high-stakes fight next, and the lightweight division now hinges on Topuria’s availability and the promotion’s scheduling. Fans and bettors should monitor official announcements for a unification bout; until then, markets will remain fluid and offer potential short-term opportunities.
Justin Gaethje: The UFC's most exciting MMA experience
Gaethje became a two-time interim champion with a win over Pimblett as UFC 324
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