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Paddy Pimblett Sets the Record Straight on UFC 319

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Prince Horton | Last updated Jul 1, 2025 9:35 PM ET

The buzz coming out of UFC 317 hasn’t slowed down. After Ilia Topuria’s dominant performance in the main event, speculation over who might challenge him next has only intensified. Among the most talked-about names is Paddy Pimblett—who fans and fighters alike have mentioned as a potential next opponent. But in the midst of swirling rumors, Pimblett has now stepped forward to address whether he’ll be part of the UFC 319 card.

Paddy Pimblett, 30, the outspoken British lightweight, has kept his name in headlines lately—whether it's by calling for a shot at Topuria or reacting to the latest rumor linking him to Justin Gaethje.

That buzz came directly from UFC middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis, who in a video captured by Ahmed Amwell and shared by Championship Rounds, claimed:

'It’s gonna be a big card. The co-main event is Paddy Pimblett and Justin Gaethje.'

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

That hypothetical matchup instantly caught fire online. But Pimblett caught wind of the clip and quickly shut things down, posting to X:

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

Yous are mad if you think I’m fighting in August
— Paddy Pimblett (@PaddyTheBaddy) July 1, 2025

With UFC 319 set for August, that rumor appears to be off the table—at least for now.

While fight announcements can change quickly, it looks like Pimblett vs. Gaethje won’t be happening at UFC 319. Until Ilia Topuria’s next opponent is officially named, both Pimblett and Gaethje may remain in limbo, with fans left guessing what's truly next for each fighter. With both men linked to the champ, all eyes are on the UFC’s next move.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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