Summary
J. Gaethje with the interim lightweight title. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @ufc
One of the most exciting fighters in the entire history of MMA, Justin gaethje He wrote another important chapter in his career by winning. Paddy Pimblett and to be crowned the new interim lightweight champion (up to 70,3 kg). In addition to the possibility of unifying the titles with Ilia Topuria In a highly anticipated duel, the result of UFC 324 This set him apart as the first fighter in the company's history to win the interim belt on two occasions.
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Signed by the UFC in 2017 as a former World Series of Fighting champion, Gaethje quickly rose to the top of the world's largest MMA organization due to his aggressive and daring style. Years later, amidst the Covid-19 pandemic and the death of Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, he became the interim champion for the first time in 2020 by knocking out [opponent's name]. Tony Ferguson and end 'El Cucuy's' winning streak.
Plenty to smile about 😄@Justin_Gaethje Looks good in gold! 🏆
[ #UFC324 ] pic.twitter.com/FbiYfHvNA8
- UFC (@ufc) January 25, 2026
Next, Destaque faced off against Khabib Nurmagomedov No. UFC 254, to attempt unification with the linear belt. Despite landing some good strikes and posing a threat to the Eagle, Gaethje was taken down and submitted with a triangle choke in the second round. Now, he is expected to have the same opportunity against Ilia TopuriaEl Matador is currently on a career hiatus due to divorce proceedings.
In addition to his achievement last weekend, the American also won the BMF belt in UFC 291The fighter knocked out his opponent. Dustin poirier with a kick to the head in the second round.
Besides Gaethje, check out all the fighters who have been interim UFC champions.
Gaethje celebrates victory in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/X/UFC
Heavyweights
Randy Couture;
Rodrigo Minotauro Walnut
Light heavyweight
Randy Couture
Medium
Welterweight
Georges St-Pierre
Mild
Feathers
Yair Rodríguez
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