Who fights tonight UFC is the question on the minds of fans across the United States as the Octagon lights up for a blockbuster event in Las Vegas. UFC 324 takes center stage with a stacked lineup that blends championship implications, divisional shake-ups, and the kind of high-intensity matchups that define the sport. From a headline interim title clash to a co-main event that could reshape the bantamweight picture, tonight’s card offers meaningful fights from top to bottom.
This in-depth preview covers every confirmed bout, the form and style of each headliner, and the broader significance of the matchups for the UFC landscape moving forward.
Table of Contents
UFC 324 at a Glance
UFC 324 takes place at the T-Mobile Arena, one of the premier venues for combat sports in the United States. The event features a full slate of main card, preliminary, and early preliminary bouts, showcasing elite talent across lightweight, bantamweight, heavyweight, women’s flyweight, featherweight, and several other divisions.
The night is built around a high-profile interim lightweight title fight, supported by a co-main event that brings together two of the most dangerous strikers in the bantamweight division. Depth is the theme of the card, with established veterans, former champions, and fast-rising contenders all set to compete.
**Main Event: Justin Gaethje vs. Paddy Pimblett
Interim UFC Lightweight Championship**
The spotlight belongs to Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett, who collide for the interim lightweight belt in a matchup that blends experience, star power, and contrasting approaches to combat.
Justin Gaethje
Gaethje enters as one of the most battle-tested fighters in the division. Known for relentless pressure, devastating leg kicks, and a willingness to engage in high-tempo exchanges, he has built a reputation as one of the most entertaining athletes in the sport. Over the years, he has faced and defeated multiple former champions and top contenders, proving he can perform under the brightest lights.
His strengths lie in controlled aggression, improved defensive awareness, and the ability to maintain pace over five rounds. In championship-length fights, his experience managing energy and adapting mid-fight becomes a critical factor.
Paddy Pimblett
Pimblett arrives with momentum and global attention. Charismatic and confident, he has paired his personality with increasingly polished in-cage performances. His style blends sharp boxing, opportunistic submissions, and strong fight IQ, allowing him to capitalize on opponents’ mistakes.
This bout represents the biggest test of his career. Facing a proven elite competitor over five rounds will challenge his durability, composure, and strategic discipline. A victory would instantly elevate him into the very top tier of the lightweight division.
What’s at Stake
The interim title adds urgency to every exchange. Beyond the belt itself, the winner positions himself for a future undisputed championship opportunity and solidifies his place among the division’s elite. The fight also carries stylistic intrigue: Gaethje’s pressure and power versus Pimblett’s movement, timing, and submission threat.
**Co-Main Event: Sean O’Malley vs. Song Yadong
High-Level Bantamweight Showdown**
In the co-main event, former champion Sean O’Malley meets rising powerhouse Song Yadong in a five-round contest that could determine the next major title challenger.
Sean O’Malley
O’Malley is known for precision striking, creative angles, and exceptional distance management. His ability to control range and land clean, damaging shots has made him one of the most dangerous finishers in the bantamweight division. Technically sound and mentally composed, he thrives in high-profile moments.
Song Yadong
Song brings a different kind of threat: pressure, durability, and a well-rounded skill set that blends boxing, kicks, and strong takedown defense. He has consistently shown the ability to push a fast pace while absorbing punishment and returning fire.
Divisional Impact
A win here places the victor firmly in the title conversation. The bantamweight division remains one of the most competitive in the UFC, and a decisive performance in a five-round co-main event carries significant weight with matchmakers and fans alike.
Main Card Highlights
Derrick Lewis vs. Waldo Cortes-Acosta – Heavyweight Clash
This matchup brings together raw power and athletic explosiveness. Lewis, one of the most prolific knockout artists in heavyweight history, faces Cortes-Acosta, a fighter known for speed, movement, and technical striking. One clean shot could decide this contest, making it a must-watch for fans who appreciate heavyweight drama.
Rose Namajunas vs. Natalia Silva – Women’s Flyweight Bout
Former champion Rose Namajunas continues her campaign at flyweight against the dynamic Natalia Silva. Namajunas offers elite footwork, timing, and submission skills, while Silva brings speed, creativity, and an aggressive striking approach. The outcome could influence future title contention in the division.
Arnold Allen vs. Jean Silva – Featherweight Showpiece
Allen’s well-rounded game and calm, methodical approach meet Silva’s explosive offense and submission threat. Featherweight remains one of the UFC’s deepest divisions, and a strong performance here could push the winner closer to top-five status.
Preliminary Card Breakdown
Umar Nurmagomedov vs. Deiveson Figueiredo
A fascinating stylistic battle between a grappling specialist with relentless top control and a former champion known for power and finishing instincts. The contrast between technical wrestling and explosive striking makes this one of the most intriguing fights outside the main card.
Nikita Krylov vs. Modestas Bukauskas
Light heavyweights with knockout capability and submission skills meet in a bout that could end suddenly or evolve into a tactical chess match on the ground.
Alex Perez vs. Charles Johnson
Speed, volume, and cardio define this flyweight contest. Both fighters rely on movement and combination striking, promising a fast-paced, technical encounter.
Ateba Gautier vs. Andrey Pulyaev
Middleweight prospects collide with the goal of breaking into the division’s crowded contender pool. Expect a blend of physicality and calculated aggression.
Early Prelim Fights to Watch
Michael Johnson vs. Alexander Hernandez
Two experienced lightweights with contrasting rhythms: Johnson’s smooth boxing and footwork against Hernandez’s explosive bursts and wrestling pressure.
Josh Hokit vs. Denzel Freeman
A heavyweight bout that showcases developing talent and raw power, often the recipe for dramatic finishes.
Ty Miller vs. Adam Fugitt
Welterweights looking to make an impression with pace, endurance, and versatility, setting the tone for the night’s action.
Card Adjustments and Final Lineup
One scheduled bout was removed after a fighter experienced medical issues during the weigh-in process, leading to a precautionary cancellation. The remainder of the card, however, stands confirmed, preserving a full evening of competition across multiple weight classes.
Why Tonight Matters
UFC 324 is more than a single night of fights. It represents a crossroads for several divisions:
- The lightweight interim title bout could shape the championship picture for the rest of the year.
- The bantamweight co-main event may determine the next title challenger.
- Veterans seek to defend their rankings against ambitious newcomers.
- Prospects aim to break into the upper tiers with statement victories.
For fans searching for clarity on who fights tonight ufc, the answer extends beyond names on a card. It’s about the evolving stories of champions, contenders, and future stars, all converging in one arena for a night that could redefine careers.
What to Expect From the Action
Expect a mix of high-level striking, technical grappling, and strategic five-round pacing in the headline bouts. The prelims promise urgency, as fighters look to secure finishes and capture attention. Heavyweight power, flyweight speed, and featherweight precision ensure stylistic variety from start to finish.
The Octagon is set, the stakes are clear, and every fight carries a story—share your predictions and stay locked in as tonight’s battles unfold.
