UFC middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis has all but confirmed a lightweight bout between Paddy Pimblett and Justin Gaethje as the co-main event for UFC 319, scheduled for August. This revelation emerged during a casual discussion, highlighting excitement around the anticipated Justin Gaethje Paddy Pimblett fight.
Du Plessis, unbeaten since joining the UFC, recently earned a unanimous decision win over Sean Strickland. He is set to headline UFC 319 against Khamzat Chimaev, a formidable opponent eyeing his first UFC championship after debuting in 2020.
Key Showdown Between Dricus du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev
The upcoming fight against Chimaev could define du Plessis’ legacy as one of the premier middleweights in UFC history. Chimaev, known for his aggressive style and rising prominence, represents the toughest challenge du Plessis has faced. The pairing elevates the event’s status, with the main title fight promising intense competition.
Du Plessis Opens Up About Co-Main Event and UFC 319 Lineup
During an appearance on the YouTube channel hosted by Ahmed Amwell, founder of Luxury Super Car Rentals Dubai, du Plessis casually disclosed the lightweight co-main event. Speaking from a luxury car showroom, he stated,
“It’s gonna be a big card. The co-main event is Paddy Pimblett and Justin Gaethje.”
This announcement confirms suspicions about the Justin Gaethje Paddy Pimblett fight being scheduled for the same night as du Plessis’ title defense.
Champion’s Vision of Defending Title on African Soil
In addition to fight news, du Plessis shared his aspirations regarding the location of future title defenses. On The Sias du Plessis Show, he expressed a strong desire to defend his middleweight belt in Africa, emphasizing the deep personal significance of such an event.
“It’s something [that] I’m pursuing. What a lot of guys would do, I can’t think of an example right away, they would say – I’m not defending my belt, unless it’s on my home soil. A lot of guys go through that. UFC champions, or boxers, and this happened a lot.”
He further reflected on the importance of this goal:
“That’s the thing. I had to put that in the back of my mind because that is one of the ultimate goals. Like it is to become a champion, is to defend this belt on home soil.”
Looking Ahead: Implications for UFC 319 and Fighters Involved
The confirmation of the Justin Gaethje Paddy Pimblett fight as the co-main event adds considerable intrigue to UFC 319, positioning it as a must-watch for fight fans. With du Plessis defending his title against Chimaev and the promising lightweight clash nearby, the event promises a night packed with high-stakes battles.
Du Plessis’ ambition to defend his title in Africa suggests a potential future shift in UFC fight locations, which could broaden the sport’s global reach. Meanwhile, Pimblett and Gaethje’s matchup stands to significantly impact the lightweight division’s landscape.