In a major interview on Submission Radio ahead of his title fight, top contender Justin Gaethje has detailed the significant opportunities that would open for him if reigning UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria moves up to welterweight.
With Gaethje set to face Paddy Pimblett for the interim lightweight title at UFC 324 on 24 January, ‘The Highlight’ sees a future where he could claim undisputed gold and secure lucrative title rematches. His comments add a new strategic layer to the already stacked UFC lightweight division landscape.
The “Manifested” Path: From Interim to Undisputed Champion
Gaethje explained his clear vision: “If Ilia went up, I’d just be the champion”, referring to Topuria’s well-publicised ambition to challenge for a historic third belt.
This scenario would see the winner of the UFC 324 headliner—Gaethje vs. Pimblett—elevated to undisputed champion. Gaethje believes this opens a perfect path: “I think what that leaves open is the chance for me to get a rematch against Max Holloway or Charles Oliveira, get my belt, and the BMF belt“. He described this double-title ambition as a script he has been “speaking into existence”.
A Division in Motion: Oliveira, Holloway, and the BMF Title
Gaethje’s envisioned path intersects directly with other major fixtures. Charles Oliveira and Max Holloway are scheduled for a high-stakes rematch at UFC 326 on 7 March, with Holloway’s BMF title on the line.
Oliveira, the former champion, shares a similar outlook. He recently stated that a statement win over Holloway should propel him back into contention for the undisputed lightweight title. For more on the evolving combat sports landscape and fighter perspectives, key insights are often shared across major news outlets.
Topuria’s Hiatus: The Catalyst for Change
The entire landscape shifted when champion Ilia Topuria announced he would step away from competition for the first quarter of 2026 to focus on family.
The UFC acted swiftly, creating the interim title fight between Gaethje and Pimblett. While the original plan is for the interim winner to face Topuria upon his return, Gaethje’s comments highlight a compelling alternative should ‘El Matador’ decide his future lies at welterweight.
Road to UFC 324: Spoiler Intentions and a Stacked Card
Despite looking ahead, Gaethje’s immediate focus is firmly on Paddy ‘The Baddy’ Pimblett. He has vowed to play spoiler, declaring, “I’m going to f*ck this up for everybody. There’s going to be no Paddy and Ilia”. For a deeper look into Gaethje’s mindset and analysis of the fight, detailed features have been published.
The event is further bolstered by a blockbuster co-main event featuring a women’s bantamweight title fight between Kayla Harrison and Amanda Nunes.
The Future of the Lightweight Throne
Justin Gaethje’s public mapping of this potential future adds a fascinating strategic layer. Whether the path runs through a returning Ilia Topuria or towards a vacated belt, the outcome of UFC 324 will be the first critical step in determining the next era of the 155-pound championship.