Justin Gaethje captured the UFC interim lightweight championship for the second time by defeating Paddy Pimblett via unanimous decision at UFC 324. The Highlight knocked down the undefeated Pimblett multiple times, with judges scoring the fight 49-46, 49-46, and 48-47 in his favor. The victory extended Gaethje's record to 9-2 as a betting underdog in the UFC.

This win sets up a unification bout with undisputed champion Ilia Topuria, who has indicated he wants to fight the winner between April and June. For Gaethje, it's a chance to redeem his previous interim title loss to Khabib Nurmagomedov in 2020. Pimblett, meanwhile, suffers his first UFC defeat after seven straight wins inside the octagon.

Gaethje's strategy proved effective, as he consistently backed Pimblett against the fence and landed powerful uppercuts and right hands. Despite absorbing heavy kicks to his body and legs, Gaethje maintained forward pressure and outlanded Pimblett 219-177 in total strikes. The 37-year-old veteran now awaits his next challenge against the younger Topuria.