MMA is officially back, with the UFC kicking off its 2026 on Saturday care of UFC 324, the promotion’s debut on Paramount+ in the U.S. and elsewhere.
While a number of major promotions have held shows already, the behemoth of the sport is getting a late start after a month off. Much of that had to do with the debut on a new broadcast home, and some big shows quickly approaching (including the obvious: UFC White House, and International Fight Week). Those cards will be stacked, and talent might be in short supply elsewhere as a result.
For its coming out party under the Paramount Skydance family, the UFC had planned a one-two punch: Justin Gaethje vs. Paddy Pimblett for an interim lightweight title, and Kayla Harrison vs. Amanda Nunes for the women’s bantamweight crown. Not to mention bragging rights as the female GOAT, a moniker Nunes had earned prior to her retirement in 2023.
However, a serious neck injury to Harrison scrapped that fight, leaving Sean O’Malley vs. Song Yadong to take its place as the UFC 324 co-main event. A decent fight with an ex-champ, to be sure. But not the two best female fighters in the UFC throwing down. Not a two-time Olympic gold medal winner facing a two-time UFC champ.
Rose Namajunas, Umar Nurmagomedov, Derrick Lewis, and other fan faves are all to be found on the UFC 324 card. After it all plays out, tune in for the night’s post-fight press conference. A live stream is available above!
