Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) will not host a Lightweight No. 1 contender fight next month.
Yesterday, a video emerged of UFC Middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis claiming that Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett would collide in the co-main event of UFC 319, scheduled for next month at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois.
“It’s gonna be a big card. The co-main event is Paddy Pimblett and Justin Gaethje. That’s an awesome fight,” du Plessis said.
Did Dricus du Plessis leak the co-main event of #UFC319 in August
“It’s gonna be a big card. The co-main event is Paddy Pimblett and Justin Gaethje.”
YT / Ahmed Amwellpic.twitter.com/wbgPzW1NHt
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) June 30, 2025
A Gaethje-Pimblett matchup would have been a thrilling addition to an already blockbuster main event pitting Du Plessis against Khamzat Chimaev, particularly given the high stakes.
However, the Lightweight bout is not happening as Pimblett dispelled the rumor today via social media.
“Yous are mad if you think I’m fighting in August,” Pimblett wrote.
Yous are mad if you think I’m fighting in August
— Paddy Pimblett (@PaddyTheBaddy) July 1, 2025
In retrospect, the idea was wishful thinking. Pimblett appeared out of training camp during his UFC 317 interviews and his in-cage appearance with Ilia Topuria after the main event.
Moreover, “The Baddy” may be in line for a direct title shot against Topuria, making a risky fight against Gaethje unnecessary.
Still, UFC 319 needs a standout co-main event, as the current co-headliner, Jared Cannonier vs. Michael Page, lacks the same allure.
Come on, Dana White, deliver something spectacular!
