While the headlines for UFC 324 are dominated by the interim lightweight title clash between Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett, the true “people’s main event” might just be hiding in the middle of the main card. On January 24, 2026, former champion Sean O’Malley returns to the Octagon to face the dangerous Song Yadong in a bantamweight showdown that screams violence.
This isn’t just a clash of styles; it is a direct battle for the future of the 135-pound division. With Petr Yan recently reclaiming the throne, the winner of O’Malley vs. Song is arguably the next man up. In this preview, we break down the stakes, the stats, and the stylistic warfare fans can expect when the UFC kicks off its new Paramount+ era at the T-Mobile Arena.
Fight Card Information
- Event: UFC 324: Gaethje vs. Pimblett
- Date: Saturday, January 24, 2026
- Location: T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada
- Broadcast: Paramount+ (Main Card & Prelims)
- Main Card Start Time: 10:00 PM ET / 7:00 PM PT
The Bantamweight Stakes: Chasing Petr Yan
The bantamweight division is currently in a state of beautiful chaos. After Petr Yan’s stunning upset of Merab Dvalishvili late last year, the title picture has reset. For a detailed look at who holds the gold across all divisions, check out our guide to UFC weight classes and champions in 2026.
For Sean O’Malley (Ranked #3), this fight is about redemption. After losing his belt to Dvalishvili, “Suga” needs a statement win to force a rematch with Yan, a matchup that remains one of the most controversial and technically brilliant fights in recent history. O’Malley cannot afford a slip-up here; a loss would relegate him to “fun fighter” status rather than immediate title contender.
For Song Yadong (Ranked #5), this is the moment of truth. The “Kung Fu Kid” has been fighting in the UFC since he was a teenager, racking up wins against legends and prospects alike. A victory over a superstar like O’Malley doesn’t just boost his stock—it undeniably stamps his ticket to a title shot. Song has the durability and power to spoil the party, and he knows it.
Styles Make Fights: Sniper vs. Power Puncher
This matchup delights purists because it pits two elite strikers against each other with vastly different philosophies.
Sean O’Malley: The Sniper
O’Malley is a master of distance management. Utilizing his 72-inch reach, he prefers to stay on the outside, peppering opponents with teep kicks and straight rights until they overextend. His footwork is his first line of defense; he rarely absorbs clean shots because he is simply not there when the punch arrives. Against Song, O’Malley will look to use lateral movement to negate the Chinese fighter’s forward pressure, setting traps for his signature fade-away right hand.
Song Yadong: The Pocket Boxer
Song Yadong is a compact powerhouse. Training out of Team Alpha Male, he possesses arguably the best boxing fundamentals in the division. He excels in the pocket, throwing hooks with terrifying speed and accuracy. Unlike O’Malley, who floats, Song marches. He cuts off the cage well and is willing to eat a shot to land his devastating left hook. His chin is granite—a necessary attribute when trying to close the distance on O’Malley.
Key Stats & X-Factors
- Reach Advantage: O’Malley holds a significant 5-inch reach advantage (72″ vs. 67″). This is the defining metric of the fight. If Song can’t bridge that gap without taking damage, it will be a long night.
- Durability: Song has never been knocked out in the UFC. O’Malley has shown fragility in his legs (e.g., against Chito Vera), but his chin held up against Yan’s best shots.
- The “Paramount+” Factor: With this being the debut event on the new streaming partner, all eyes are on the main card. O’Malley thrives under the bright lights, while Song has sometimes started slow in high-pressure main events.
Prediction: Who Leaves Las Vegas with a Title Shot?
This fight is a coin flip that depends entirely on distance. If the fight takes place at kickboxing range, O’Malley wins a decision comfortably. If it becomes a phone-booth brawl, Song Yadong sleeps him.
Expect O’Malley to fight a disciplined, risk-averse game early. He knows Song’s power is dangerous for all 15 minutes. O’Malley will likely target Song’s body with front kicks to drain his gas tank before opening up with combinations in the third round. Song will have his moments, likely rocking O’Malley in the second, but the former champ’s length and accuracy should earn him a razor-thin decision victory, setting up the blockbuster Yan vs. O’Malley 2 for International Fight Week.
Prediction: Sean O’Malley by Unanimous Decision (29-28).
FAQ: UFC 324 O’Malley vs. Song
What time does Sean O’Malley fight?
Sean O’Malley vs. Song Yadong is on the Main Card, which starts at 10:00 PM ET / 7:00 PM PT. Expect their walkouts to happen approximately around 11:15 PM ET, depending on the duration of the earlier heavyweight bout between Cortes-Acosta and Lewis.
Is this fight for the interim belt?
No. The interim title fight is the main event between Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett. However, the winner of O’Malley vs. Song is widely considered the No. 1 contender for Petr Yan’s undisputed bantamweight championship.
How can I watch UFC 324?
UFC 324 is the first event under the new broadcast deal. You can stream the entire card, including the prelims and main card, exclusively on Paramount+ in the United States.