The Ultimate Fighting Championship will not be featuring a Lightweight No. 1 contender eliminator fight next month, contrary to recent speculation. A video surfaced recently showing UFC Middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis stating that Justin Gaethje would face Paddy Pimblett in the co-main event of UFC 319 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois.

Du Plessis said,

“It’s gonna be a big card. The co-main event is Paddy Pimblett and Justin Gaethje. That’s an awesome fight.”

This sparked excitement among fans anticipating a high-stakes bout to complement the main event between Du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev.

Pimblett Denies August Fight with Gaethje

Despite the buzz, Paddy Pimblett quickly dismissed the talk on social media, stating firmly,

“Yous are mad if you think I’m fighting in August.”

His recent appearances, including post-fight interviews at UFC 317 and his cage-side presence during Ilia Topuria’s fight, suggested that he was not in active camp for an August match.

Many believe Pimblett might be positioning himself for a direct title shot against Topuria, which would make a risky fight against Gaethje unnecessary at this time. Meanwhile, Gaethje himself has shown reluctance toward interim bouts, focusing instead on securing a title shot or contemplating retirement.

Current UFC 319 Co-Main Event Lacks Same Draw

With the Gaethje-Pimblett fight off the table, UFC 319’s co-main event will feature Jared Cannonier versus Michael Page. While both fighters are respected, this matchup has yet to generate the same excitement or anticipation compared to the rumored Lightweight bout.

Fans and analysts alike are now looking to UFC president Dana White to deliver a co-headliner that matches the strength of the main event and excites viewers for the upcoming card on August 17th.