UFC 324, set for early November in Las Vegas, will debut on Paramount+ with a headline clash between Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett, introduce an interim title bout, launch the UFC Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu series, and expand free‑to‑air prelims to New Zealand, marking a major shift in the promotion’s streaming and global strategy.
Paramount+ Becomes UFC’s New Home
After ten seasons on ESPN, the UFC moves to a streaming‑first model with Paramount+. The partnership gives the organization direct‑to‑consumer access, detailed viewer analytics, and a platform for premium fight nights.
Gaethje vs. Pimblett Main Event
Former interim lightweight champion Justin Gaethje brings relentless pressure and powerful leg kicks, while the “Scouse Assassin” Paddy Pimblett offers slick striking and rapid grappling transitions. Odds favor Gaethje, but Pimblett’s recent knockout streak makes the matchup highly competitive.
Interim Title Fight Adds Stakes
An interim championship bout—likely in the lightweight division—will crown a contender for a future unification clash, adding championship intrigue without a full‑belt title.
UFC Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu: A New Grappling Platform
Launching on June 6, 2025, UFC BJJ provides a season‑long submission‑only series broadcast on Paramount+ and selected free‑to‑air partners. The inaugural tournament features heavyweight icons Gordon Ryan and Marcus “Buchecha” Almeida, delivering immediate star power and expanding the UFC’s combat‑sport portfolio.
Global Expansion: Free‑to‑Air Access in New Zealand
Starting January 25, UFC prelims and Fight Night events will air free‑to‑air in New Zealand, with pay‑per‑view options for numbered events. This strategy aims to grow the fan base while offering flexible viewing choices.
Impact on Fighters, Fans, and Business
For fighters, the Paramount+ platform offers broader exposure and detailed engagement data that can influence contracts and sponsorships. The UFC BJJ series creates a new stage for pure grapplers and encourages mixed‑martial‑arts athletes to enhance their ground game.
For fans, the shift to streaming provides on‑demand access, while free‑to‑air prelims in key markets keep the sport accessible. Subscriptions deliver exclusive content, and international free broadcasts mitigate paywall concerns.
From a business perspective, the Paramount+ deal positions the UFC alongside major streaming competitors, diversifies revenue streams, and establishes the brand as a multi‑discipline combat‑sports hub.
Looking Ahead to UFC 324
The upcoming event will test the new era: Gaethje and Pimblett must deliver a compelling showdown, the interim title fight will shape future championship narratives, UFC BJJ will showcase technical artistry, and the global broadcast expansion will reinforce the UFC’s worldwide reach. Success could cement the organization’s dominance in the digital combat‑sports landscape.
