UFC fighter Paddy Pimblett recently addressed the speculation about a potential co-main event fight against Justin Gaethje at UFC 319, a rumor initially spread by middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis.
Pimblett is a prominent figure in the UFC`s lightweight division. His position in the title picture became clearer after lightweight champion Ilia Topuria, a long-time rival, defeated Charles Oliveira by knockout at UFC 317.
Following Topuria`s title win, several top lightweights, including Pimblett, Arman Tsarukyan, and Justin Gaethje (who were present cageside at UFC 317), are considered potential challengers for the new champion`s first defense.
The rumor gaining traction recently stemmed from UFC middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis, who claimed to have heard that Pimblett vs. Gaethje was slated for the co-main event of UFC 319.
A fight between Pimblett and Gaethje could potentially serve as a significant No. 1 contender bout, particularly as the UFC weighs options for other top contenders like Tsarukyan and considers Gaethje`s recent statements about wanting a title shot.
While Gaethje has not publicly commented on the rumor, Pimblett quickly took to social media to clarify the situation regarding a potential UFC 319 booking.
Paddy Pimblett Responds to UFC 319 Rumors
On his X (formerly Twitter) account, Pimblett posted a clear denial regarding fighting in the timeframe expected for UFC 319:
“Yous are mad if you think I’m fighting in August [LAUGHS],” Pimblett wrote.
As of now, the UFC has not made any official announcements regarding the next opponents for either Paddy Pimblett or Justin Gaethje. UFC CEO Dana White has also previously indicated that a direct fight between Pimblett and Topuria might not be the immediate next step.
Pimblett`s last outing was a victory over Michael Chandler at UFC 314 earlier this year. He currently holds an undefeated record in the UFC, with notable wins against opponents such as Tony Ferguson, Bobby Green, and Jared Gordon.
Other lightweight contenders are also making moves. Arman Tsarukyan, who was a backup fighter at UFC 317, is expected to return to action soon. He recently made headlines for stating he believes Ilia Topuria would be an `easier fight` than his previous opponent, Charles Oliveira, whom he defeated at UFC 300.
The UFC lightweight division remains a hotbed of activity at the top, with numerous contenders positioning themselves for a shot at Ilia Topuria`s newly acquired belt as a new era begins.
