Justin Gaethje’s Octagon return is already one of the most talked-about early 2026 storylines, with his UFC 324 showdown against Paddy “The Baddy” Pimblett drawing title-fight level attention.
Gaethje enters UFC 324 as a proven veteran, dangerous and durable, still carrying some of the heaviest hands in the division. Pimblett arrives with momentum and a massive fanbase, eager to prove he belongs among the elite.
The stylistic contrast is driving early wagering interest. Gaethje’s pressure and leg-kick assault remain among the most punishing in the sport, while Pimblett’s grappling and scrambling ability give him a path to victory if he can survive the opening storm.
Both fighters are known for chaotic, high-output performances, so bettors are already circling props tied to knockdowns, submission attempts, and round totals.
Offshore 18+ Sportsbooks Post Early Odds
U.S. state-regulated sportsbooks typically wait for official bout confirmations and commission approvals, so online 18+ UFC sportsbooks are the first to release betting lines for Gaethje vs. Pimblett. These international operators, open to players aged 18 and older, offer moneylines, method-of-victory props, and early round totals.
Early action has favored Gaethje, with bettors citing his experience against top-tier competition and his ability to end fights quickly. Pimblett backers are finding value in submission props and late-fight scenarios, especially if the bout turns into a scramble-heavy contest.
Some 18+ online sportsbooks are also promoting boosted odds for parlays tied to UFC 324 prelims, along with live-betting options that activate once the event begins. With the fight still weeks away, the handle is already outpacing several recent Fight Night cards.
Justin Gaethje vs. Paddy Pimblett*
- Spread: +9.5 (+115), -9.5 (-150)
- Win: +195, -235
- Rounds: O2.5 (-110), U2.5 (-120)
UFC 324 – Gaethje, Pimblett Props
Method of Victory*
- Gaethje KO/TKO/DQ: +400
- Pimblett KO/TKO/DQ: +400
- Gaethje Submission: +2800
- Pimblett Submission: +150
- Gaethje Decision/Technical Decision: +500
- Pimblett Decision/Technical Decision: +500
Alternate Method of Victory 2*
- Gaethje Unanimous Decision: +750
- Pimblett Unanimous Decision: +600
- Gaethje Split/Majority Decision: +1400
- Pimblett Split/Majority Decision: +1200
How Will the Fight End*
- KO/TKO/DQ: +165
- Submission: +145
- Decision: +220
U.S. Betting Interest Continues to Grow
Online sports betting remains restricted to 21+ players in most U.S. betting states, but demand for UFC wagering among younger adult fans hasn’t slowed. Offshore sportsbooks continue to attract American bettors who want earlier lines, broader prop menus, and access without age restrictions.
UFC events consistently rank among the most-bet combat sports matchups in the U.S., and Gaethje vs. Pimblett is shaping up to be one of the year’s biggest non-title fights. As the card fills out and media coverage increases, analysts expect betting volume to spike, especially once weigh-ins and fight-week interviews provide more insight into each fighter’s condition.
*Odds Via Bovada’s Online Sportsbook
