Growing Unrest in the MMA Community
The MMA world reacts with anger. UFC president Dana White revealed several major fights for early 2026 on Thursday, but the headline bouts on January 24 and 31 sparked outrage. Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett will headline UFC 324 in Las Vegas for the interim lightweight title. One week later, Alexander Volkanovski will defend his featherweight belt in a rematch with Diego Lopes in Sydney. Many fans reject both matchups and argue that neither Pimblett nor Lopes earned such opportunities.
Fans Threaten Boycott Over Gaethje vs Pimblett and Volkanovski vs Lopes 2
The backlash reaches unusual levels. Fans direct waves of criticism at White and the UFC after the announcements. The new $7.7 billion broadcast deal between UFC and Paramount aims for a spectacular start. Yet many fans now threaten to boycott the opening events. They express frustration over the overlooked contenders Arman Tsarukyan and Lerone Murphy. Comments flood social media with demands like “Boycott this PPV” and “The UFC is a fraud organization.” Others urge fans not to buy tickets or attend weigh-ins. Many call for unity and demand justice for overlooked fighters. Concerns grow that the UFC drifts toward scripted entertainment. Some say the promotion no longer lets the best fight the best and label White a liability.
Harrison and Nunes Miss Out on UFC 324 Main Event Spotlight
The anger does not stop with the lightweight title situation. Many also question the decision to place Pimblett and Gaethje in the main event over the card’s undisputed championship bout. Kayla Harrison and Amanda Nunes will co-headline UFC 324 as the reigning bantamweight champion welcomes the women’s all-time great back from retirement. Their return generates excitement, but fans argue the spotlight should rest on the established champions. Despite the uproar at the top of the card, several undercard fights draw positive attention. Sean O’Malley vs Song Yadong promises a striking showcase, while returns from Rose Namajunas, Derrick Lewis, and Umar Nurmagomedov add intrigue to the Paramount+ debut.
