Is the UFC's Paramount era starting with a whimper? That's the burning question on every MMA fan's mind as we approach UFC 324, the first numbered event of 2026 and the kickoff of the UFC's partnership with Paramount. But here's where it gets controversial... While the card boasts exciting matchups and recognizable names, it lacks the undisputed title fights that typically define a blockbuster event. So, is this a strong start or a missed opportunity?
On the surface, UFC 324 has all the ingredients for a thrilling night. The main event features two action-packed lightweights, Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett, battling for interim champion status. The co-main event showcases a former UFC champion likely vying for another title shot, and the undercard is stacked with contenders, veterans, and fan favorites. And this is the part most people miss... Despite the absence of undisputed titles—thanks to Kayla Harrison's postponed bout with Amanda Nunes—this card could still be a game-changer for the UFC's new era.
To assess whether UFC 324 is a dud or a diamond in the rough, we turn to the MMA Fighting panel: Alexander K. Lee, Mike Heck, and Jed Meshew. Their insights reveal a nuanced perspective on the event's potential.
1. Is UFC 324 a weaker January kickoff compared to past events?
Alexander K. Lee argues that while January UFC events are often structurally uneven, UFC 324 holds its own against recent years. He highlights the card's depth, featuring 13 ranked fighters and four potential title challenger bouts, including the intriguing Waldo Cortes-Acosta vs. Derrick Lewis. Lee admits the loss of Harrison vs. Nunes stings but still considers this a solid start.
Mike Heck agrees, ranking UFC 324 among the best post-COVID January events. He contrasts it with past cards like UFC 257 (Jessica Eye vs. Joanne Wood as the featured bout) and UFC 297, which lacked depth outside the main event. Heck believes UFC 324 rivals UFC 311 in overall quality, even without the Harrison-Nunes showdown.
Jed Meshew takes a different approach, emphasizing the card's role in attracting new fans. He argues that UFC 324 isn't for hardcore fans but for casual viewers tuning in without a PPV paywall. Fights like Ateba Gautier's knockout potential, Sean O’Malley vs. Song Yadong, and the lightweight title bout could convert newcomers into die-hard fans. Meshew boldly suggests that while not the most meritorious card, it’s designed to entertain and grow the sport.
2. Can the main event winner claim the No. 1 lightweight spot?
Lee and Heck are skeptical. With Ilia Topuria as the undisputed champion and Islam Makhachev looming, neither Gaethje nor Pimblett can stake a clear claim. Heck adds that Arman Tsarukyan and Max Holloway further complicate the picture. However, Meshew counters that the lightweight division lacks a clear No. 1, making the debate wide open. If Pimblett defeats Gaethje, he could at least enter the conversation, despite potential losses to Tsarukyan or Topuria.
3. What’s the most anticipated matchup outside the main event?
Lee picks Arnold Allen vs. Jean Silva, a fight shrouded in unpredictability. Silva, coming off a loss, needs a win to stay in title contention, while Allen seeks to reclaim momentum after recent setbacks. Heck favors Waldo Cortes-Acosta vs. Derrick Lewis, a potential title contender bout with high stakes and excitement. Meshew opts for the co-main event, Sean O’Malley vs. Song Yadong, praising its talent and entertainment value, though he criticizes the possibility of O’Malley getting an undeserved title shot if he wins.
Thought-provoking question for the audience: Is the UFC prioritizing fan growth over hardcore appeal with UFC 324? Does this strategy work, or should they focus on delivering undisputed title fights to kick off their Paramount era? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a debate!
