Gaethje and Pimblett Clash for Interim Gold as UFC Unveils Paramount+ Deal for Australian Fans
SYDNEY, 25 January 2026 – The Ultimate Fighting Championship kicks off its 2026 campaign with a blockbuster pay-per-view event this weekend, headlined by a pivotal interim lightweight title fight. In a major shift for Australian audiences, the promotion has also confirmed a landmark seven-year streaming deal with Paramount+, set to change how local fans watch the action from this year onward.
UFC 324: Interim Lightweight Title on the Line
The spotlight falls on the Octagon this weekend for UFC 324, where fan favourites Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett will battle for the interim lightweight championship. Gaethje (26-5-0), renowned as one of the sport’s most exciting strikers, faces the rising English star Pimblett (23-3-0) in a clash of styles that promises fireworks. The event is scheduled for the evening of Saturday 24 January (US time), with the main card available in Australia via Kayo Sports’ Main Event and Foxtel.
Paramount+ Secures Australian UFC Rights From 2026
In a significant broadcasting change, the UFC has struck a new seven-year global partnership with Paramount. From 2026, Paramount+ will become the exclusive Australian home for all UFC Fight Nights and pay-per-view preliminary cards at no extra cost to subscribers.
This move ends UFC Fight Pass’s primary role for live events in the region. Main pay-per-view cards will continue to be offered through Kayo Sports’ Main Event and Foxtel. UFC President Dana White said the deal represented another step in the sport’s global expansion.
Aussie Champions and Future Fights
Australian fight fans have much to look forward to in the coming year. Reigning welterweight champion Jack Della Maddalena is slated to defend his title against former lightweight champion and pound-for-pound great Islam Makhachev in a super-fight later in 2026. Furthermore, the UFC is scheduled to return to Sydney for a major pay-per-view event, UFC 325, with local star Jamie Mullarkey expected to feature.
Key Facts for Australian Viewers
| Event | Details for Australian Fans |
|---|---|
| UFC 324: Gaethje vs Pimblett | Main card available via Kayo Main Event & Foxtel. Prelims on UFC Fight Pass (until Paramount+ transition). |
| New Streaming Deal | From 2026, Paramount+ will stream all UFC Fight Nights & PPV prelims. Kayo/Foxtel retain PPV main cards. |
| Local Spotlight | Champion Jack Della Maddalena to defend vs. Islam Makhachev in 2026. UFC 325 scheduled for Sydney. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I watch UFC 324 in Australia?
The UFC 324 main card is available through Kayo Sports’ Main Event pay-per-view service and Foxtel. The preliminary fights will be on UFC Fight Pass.
What is changing with the UFC’s streaming in Australia?
Starting from the 2026 season, Paramount+ will become the new home for all UFC Fight Night events and the preliminary cards for pay-per-views. This is included in a Paramount+ subscription. The main cards of pay-per-view events will still require a separate purchase through Kayo Main Event or Foxtel.
When is Jack Della Maddalena fighting next?
The Australian welterweight champion is scheduled to make his next title defence against Islam Makhachev in 2026. An exact date and location for this blockbuster fight are yet to be announced.