In a fresh tease that has set the MMA world alight, Paddy Pimblett appears to have revealed the identity of his next UFC 329 foe. The Scouser’s cryptic reference to “southpaws” has sent fans into a frenzy, with many convinced that ‘The Baddy’ will lock horns with French contender Benoit Saint-Denis at International Fight Week in July. After falling short against Justin Gaethje for the interim lightweight crown, Pimblett is eager to rebound on one of the sport’s biggest stages.
Southpaw clue fuels Saint-Denis speculation
This week, Pimblett shared a training snap alongside southpaw specialists Dong Hyun Kim and Seok Hyeon Ko at Liverpool’s Next Generation MMA. By praising southpaw sparring rounds as “perfect,” the Liverpool-born lightweight has all but ruled out orthodox fighters like Dan Hooker or Renato Moicano. On social media, supporters were quick to point towards Benoit Saint-Denis, the only likely southpaw contender standing in the way of ‘The Baddy’ at UFC 329.
UFC 329 card shapes up around International Fight Week
UFC 329, rumoured to take place on July 11 in Las Vegas, could mark Pimblett’s long-awaited return, nestled on the undercard of a blockbuster Conor McGregor headliner. If McGregor’s comeback is confirmed for International Fight Week, ‘The Notorious’ will likely sit atop a T-Mobile Arena bill, leaving space for Pimblett’s rebound on the same card. The proposed date aligns perfectly with Dana White’s earlier nod to Pimblett’s comeback request.
Bounce-back opportunity after title setback
Since his narrow defeat by Gaethje at UFC 324, Pimblett has been vocal about setting the record straight. A win over Saint-Denis, who has impressed with striking and relentless pace, would push ‘The Baddy’ back into title contention and reignite his march up the lightweight rankings. At 29, Pimblett remains one of the promotion’s most charismatic stars, and a convincing victory could restore momentum ahead of another shot at MMA gold.
With UFC officials yet to make an official announcement, fight fans are watching every post and interview for confirmation. Should the matchup materialise, Pimblett vs Saint-Denis promises fireworks and pivotal ranking shifts in the thin lightweight division.
FAQ
Who is Paddy Pimblett’s likely opponent at UFC 329?
Benoit Saint-Denis is widely tipped to face Paddy Pimblett at UFC 329 following Pimblett’s recent social media hint referencing southpaw sparring partners.
When and where is UFC 329 expected to take place?
UFC 329 is rumoured for July 11 during International Fight Week, potentially at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, headlined by Conor McGregor’s comeback.
What happened in Pimblett’s last UFC fight?
Pimblett challenged Justin Gaethje for the interim lightweight title at UFC 324 in January but lost via unanimous decision in a thrilling main event.
How could a win impact Pimblett’s career?
A victory over Saint-Denis would likely catapult Pimblett back into lightweight title contention and solidify him as a top-five contender.
