Pimblett Favored Over Gaethje for Interim Title

Paddy Pimblett is the odds-on favorite to defeat Justin Gaethje at UFC 324 this Saturday in Las Vegas, aiming to claim the interim lightweight belt. The winner is slated to potentially face Charles Oliveira, whose team is actively planning his next move. Oliveira's coach, Diego Lima, expressed that a victory over Max Holloway on March 7 would position Oliveira for a title shot against the winner of the interim championship bout.

However, the path to a title unification is complicated by Ilia Topuria's uncertain return. Topuria, the current lightweight champion, had recently suggested a return between April and June, but personal issues may delay his defense. Lima indicated that Oliveira's team respects Topuria and hopes he resolves his issues before returning to fight at his full potential.

Lima also suggested that if all plans align, Oliveira could potentially fight on a historic White House card in June. This scenario depends on Oliveira winning his upcoming fight and the interim title bout concluding successfully. Oliveira previously defeated Gaethje in a controversial bout in Phoenix, leading Lima to express a preference for facing Pimblett due to marketability and avoiding a rematch.

Lima believes Pimblett will win, citing his current momentum and talent, despite questions about his past opponents' records. He also noted the importance of fighters like Pimblett, who represent their countries, similar to Michael Bisping. The ultimate goal for Oliveira, should these events unfold favorably, is to reclaim the undisputed title and potentially unify belts by the end of 2026.