The UFC’s first numbered event of 2026 is officially in the books, and with UFC 325 in Australia just days away, attention is already shifting Down Under. Still, before the Octagon lands in Oceania, plenty of intrigue remains surrounding what’s next for the standout performers from UFC 324 in Las Vegas.

Fan favorites Justin Gaethje and Sean O’Malley both escaped T-Mobile Arena with hard-earned victories following two thrilling battles. Gaethje walked away with the interim lightweight title, but that doesn’t automatically guarantee a unification bout with undisputed champion Ilia Topuria. Meanwhile, O’Malley — along with Paddy Pimblett, who fell to Gaethje in the main event — faces a challenging road back toward title contention.

Here’s a look at the most logical next steps for UFC 324’s biggest names, along with a few wild-card possibilities.

Justin Gaethje (Interim Lightweight Champion)

Most likely next opponent: Ilia Topuria

A lightweight unification bout feels inevitable — potentially as soon as June. Topuria remains one of MMA’s hottest stars despite taking time off early in 2026, and Gaethje represents the perfect all-action challenger. While Gaethje would likely enter as the underdog, history suggests that role suits him just fine.

Although Arman Tsarukyan is technically the No. 1 contender, Gaethje’s performance against Pimblett likely earned him the right to unify the belts.

Wild card: Winner of Max Holloway vs. Charles Oliveira

If Topuria’s return is delayed, Gaethje could instead face the winner of Holloway vs. Oliveira. Gaethje has openly expressed interest in avenging losses to both men, making either matchup compelling — and potentially explosive.

Paddy Pimblett (Lightweight)

Most likely next opponent: Arman Tsarukyan

Despite the loss, Pimblett likely gained respect for his toughness. After recovering from a grueling five-round war, a showdown with Tsarukyan makes sense for both fighters. It’s a risky assignment for Pimblett, but also one with massive upside. If the stakes and compensation are right, this is the type of challenge he’s unlikely to avoid.

Wild card: Dan Hooker

Recent verbal exchanges between Pimblett and Hooker have created buzz. Hooker is ranked just below Pimblett and remains a fan favorite. Depending on Hooker’s result at UFC 325, this matchup could gain serious traction.

Sean O’Malley (Bantamweight)

Most likely next opponent: Umar Nurmagomedov

With a Merab Dvalishvili vs. Petr Yan trilogy seemingly on deck for the title, O’Malley vs. Nurmagomedov stands out as the perfect No. 1 contender bout. Both fighters impressed at UFC 324, and stylistically, it’s a fascinating clash that could headline a future event.

Wild card: Cory Sandhagen

O’Malley vs. Sandhagen has long been viewed as one of the division’s most intriguing matchups. While Nurmagomedov appears to be better timed right now, Sandhagen remains a highly viable alternative.

Waldo Cortes-Acosta (Heavyweight)

Most likely next opponent: Curtis Blaydes

After stopping Derrick Lewis, Cortes-Acosta called for Blaydes — and the matchup makes perfect sense. With the heavyweight title picture uncertain due to Tom Aspinall’s injury, this fight could effectively serve as a title eliminator. Historically, anyone who beats Blaydes ends up fighting for gold.

Wild card: Alexander Volkov

Volkov remains highly ranked and experienced. A win over him would also catapult Cortes-Acosta directly into championship contention.

Natalia Silva (Flyweight)

Most likely next opponent: Valentina Shevchenko

Following wins over Rose Namajunas and Alexa Grasso, Silva has clearly earned a title shot. Her unique style and momentum make her a legitimate challenge for Shevchenko, and this fight feels ready to happen this spring.

Wild card: Manon Fiorot

If Silva doesn’t receive an immediate title opportunity, Fiorot represents the next most logical opponent in what would be a high-level contender showdown.

Jean Silva (Featherweight)

Most likely next opponent: Yair Rodriguez

Silva’s decision win over Arnold Allen opened the door to elite competition. Rodriguez, currently ranked No. 3, could be returning soon from injury, and a matchup with Silva would offer both men a chance to reassert themselves in the title picture.

Wild card: Steve Garcia

Garcia brings momentum and excitement, making him a fun stylistic matchup. While the UFC may choose to save this pairing for later, it would undoubtedly deliver fireworks.

With UFC 324 now in the rearview mirror, the division landscapes are already shifting. Whether through title unifications, contender clashes or breakout opportunities, the road ahead promises no shortage of compelling matchups as 2026 continues to unfold inside the Octagon.