The UFC is back in the spotlight today as UFC 324: Gaethje vs. Pimblett takes over T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on January 24, 2026. Fans around the world are calling it one of the most talked-about UFC events of the year not only because of the exciting main event, but also because this night marks a major turning point in how UFC fights are watched.
For the first time, the UFC is going live under its new seven-year media rights deal with Paramount+, a move that changes the traditional pay-per-view (PPV) model in several major markets. That means many fans will now be able to watch big UFC events through streaming without the usual PPV purchase.
Here’s everything you need to know about UFC 324 start time, main card details, key matchups, cancellations, and the upcoming UFC 2026 schedule.
UFC 324 Location and Date: Where is UFC Tonight?
UFC 324 is happening today, January 24, 2026, at the iconic T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. Las Vegas remains one of the UFC’s most important global venues, known for hosting some of the biggest championship and blockbuster fights in MMA history.
This event is being promoted as a must-watch fight night because it blends a high-level title fight, rising-star momentum, and a big streaming launch with Paramount+.
What Time Does UFC 324 Start? (Start Time and Streaming Details)
If you’re searching online “What time does UFC 324 start” or “UFC fights tonight start time,” here’s the confirmed main schedule:
- Main Card Start Time: 9:00 PM ET / 6:00 PM PT
- Where to Watch: Exclusively on Paramount+
This is one of the biggest changes UFC fans are reacting to. Instead of purchasing a traditional PPV, viewers in select markets can now tune in directly through Paramount+, making access smoother for many audiences.
Paramount+ UFC Deal Explained: A New Era for UFC Broadcasting
UFC 324 is not just another event it’s officially the first live UFC broadcast under the new Paramount+ agreement.
Why this matters for fans
For years, UFC events were heavily based around pay-per-view buying, especially for major numbered cards. But now, the UFC is shifting into a new streaming-first strategy, and UFC 324 becomes the first major proof test of this model.
What’s changing
- UFC events are becoming more streaming-centered
- The traditional PPV format is being reduced or ended in multiple major regions
- Fans may see simpler access, especially for high-profile fight nights
This could reshape how combat sports are delivered globally going forward.
UFC 324 Fight Card Highlights: Gaethje vs Pimblett Leads the Night
This event brings a strong mix of elite fighters and mainstream names. Here are the biggest matchups announced for UFC 324:
- Main Event: Justin Gaethje vs. Paddy Pimblett (Interim Lightweight Title Fight)
- The main event features a high-energy clash between:
- Justin Gaethje vs. Paddy Pimblett
- Interim Lightweight Title on the line
Why this fight is massive
Justin Gaethje is known for his intense fighting style, pressure, and power. Meanwhile, Paddy Pimblett is one of the UFC’s biggest crowd favorites, with a fast-growing fanbase and star-level attention.
This matchup feels like a classic “experience vs momentum” storyline:
- Gaethje brings proven elite-level toughness
- Pimblett brings popularity, confidence, and explosive ambition
The interim title adds major pressure because the winner becomes one of the most important names in the lightweight division immediately.
- Co-Main Event: Sean O’Malley vs. Song Yadong (Bantamweight Bout)
- The co-main event is another big one:
- Sean O’Malley vs. Song Yadong
- Bantamweight showdown
This fight has serious division implications because both athletes are ranked-level talents and can realistically push toward title opportunities with a strong win.
Fans can expect speed, striking skill, and big momentum swings especially because both fighters are known for pushing the action.
Fight Cancelled: Ricky Turcios vs Cameron Smotherman Called Off After Weigh-In Incident
Not every UFC fight week goes smoothly, and UFC 324 had a concerning update.
The scheduled bout between Ricky Turcios and Cameron Smotherman has been cancelled, after Smotherman collapsed on stage during Friday’s weigh-ins.
While fight cancellations are always disappointing for fans, athlete health and safety is the top priority. The UFC made the right call by not letting the bout continue under uncertain medical conditions.
Upcoming UFC 2026 Schedule: First Quarter Events Confirmed
Alongside the excitement of UFC 324, the UFC has also officially announced its first-quarter 2026 schedule, and it includes some major locations and headline matchups.
Here’s what’s coming next:
- Jan 31 – UFC 325 (Sydney, Australia)
Sydney, Australia
Volkanovski vs. Lopes 2 (Featherweight Title)
This is being promoted as a historic return to Australia, and it’s arriving fast just one week after UFC 324.
- Feb 7 – UFC Fight Night (Las Vegas, Apex)
Las Vegas (Apex)
Bautista vs. Oliveira
Apex cards often deliver underrated action and are known for competitive fights with hungry contenders.
- Feb 21 – UFC Fight Night (Houston, Texas)
Houston, TX
Strickland vs. Hernandez
Houston is always a strong market for fight nights, and this matchup is expected to bring intensity.
- Feb 28 – UFC Fight Night (Mexico City)
Mexico City
Moreno vs. Almabayev
Mexico City cards usually bring massive energy and emotional crowd moments especially with top local names involved.
- Mar 7 – UFC 326 (Las Vegas, Nevada)
Las Vegas, NV
Holloway vs. Oliveira 2
A sequel fight with serious hype, especially for fans of high-volume striking and nonstop pressure.
- Jun 14 – UFC White House (Washington, D.C.)
Washington, D.C.
Historic event at the Presidential residence
One of the most surprising announcements is UFC White House, described as a historic event at the Presidential residence. This is extremely unusual for sports entertainment and could become one of the most globally discussed UFC events of all time.
Current UFC Champions (January 2026): Who Holds UFC Gold Right Now?
As of January 2026, these fighters are listed as current UFC champions:
- Heavyweight Champion: Tom Aspinall
- Light Heavyweight Champion: Alex Pereira
- Middleweight Champion: Khamzat Chimaev
- Welterweight Champion: Islam Makhachev
- Lightweight Champion: Ilia Topuria
- Featherweight Champion: Alexander Volkanovski
- Bantamweight Champion: Petr Yan
- Women’s Bantamweight Champion: Kayla Harrison
- Women’s Flyweight Champion: Valentina Shevchenko
These champions show just how competitive the UFC landscape is heading into 2026, with multiple divisions packed with superstar talent.
UFC 324 Could Be a Defining Night for 2026
UFC 324: Gaethje vs. Pimblett is not only a fight card full of action it’s a moment that could define the UFC’s future. With the Paramount+ streaming era officially beginning, and with an interim lightweight title fight that can shift the division instantly, this event carries real weight.
Between the main event drama, the co-main spotlight, the cancelled bout update, and the packed 2026 schedule ahead, UFC fans have plenty to talk about tonight.
One thing is clear: Las Vegas is ready, and the world is watching.
