Paddy Pimblett's UFC comeback is reportedly being targeted for a fight against Benoit Saint-Denis at UFC 329, potentially serving as an appetiser to Conor McGregor's long-awaited return to the octagon.
UFC 329 Details
UFC 329 is scheduled to take place on 11 July at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The Independent understands that McGregor could end his five-year absence from the cage by headlining the event. The card is also due to feature the UFC debut of Olympic-champion wrestler Gable Steveson, and now it appears that the lightweight showdown between Pimblett and Saint-Denis could be added to the lineup.
Fighters' Recent Form
Pimblett last fought in January, suffering his first loss in the UFC. The Liverpudlian, aged 31, was comprehensively outpointed by Justin Gaethje, who became a two-time interim lightweight champion with the win. One week after Pimblett's loss, Saint-Denis secured a second-round TKO of Dan Hooker, another lightweight with whom Pimblett has traded barbs.
Potential Matchup
A meeting between Pimblett (No. 6) and Saint-Denis (No. 5) at 155lb would likely be an all-action affair, given both men's penchants for brawls. Saint-Denis, a former member of the French special air service, holds a 17-3 professional record, with all wins via stoppage (six KOs/TKOs and 11 submissions). Coincidentally, Pimblett also has six KO/TKO wins and 11 submissions, with an overall record of 23-4.
It is unclear whether Pimblett vs Saint-Denis would serve as the co-main event of UFC 329, although that seems likely, especially if McGregor returns in the main event.
McGregor's Return
The former dual-weight champion last fought in 2021, suffering a broken leg in his second consecutive loss to Dustin Poirier. McGregor was initially targeting a spot on the unprecedented White House card on 14 June, but UFC president Dana White was always coy on that prospect. Talk has now turned to a possible UFC 329 slot. It is unclear whom McGregor, 37, would face, but The Independent understands it would be an active fighter with a strong profile.
