The first UFC event of the year created some movement in the first rankings update of 2026.
UFC 324 was headlined by an interim lightweight title fight between Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett. Although Gaethje claimed interim gold for the second time, there was no movement in the division’s rankings for either fighter; Gaethje stays at No. 5 and Pimblett at No. 7.
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Women’s flyweight Natalia Silva picked up a key win over former strawweight champ Rose Namajunas, even if many didn’t agree with the unanimous decision. Regardless, a win is a win, and she moves up to No. 3, passing Erin Blanchfield.
Check out all of the moves in the latest USA TODAY Sports/MMA Junkie rankings.
This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: MMA Junkie rankings update, Jan. 27: Natalia Silva continues rise
