Paddy The Baddy Targets Comeback Against Benoit Saint-Denis at UFC 329

Paddy Pimblett is reportedly set to face Benoit Saint-Denis at UFC 329, scheduled for July 11 in Las Vegas. This matchup could serve as a precursor to Conor McGregor’s highly anticipated return to the octagon. The event, taking place at T-Mobile Arena, is expected to mark McGregor’s comeback after a five-year hiatus. Reports suggest that the card will also showcase the UFC debut of Olympic champion wrestler Gable Steveson, with Pimblett vs Saint-Denis potentially added to the lineup. Pimblett, who last fought in January, suffered his first loss in the UFC against Justin Gaethje, who became a two-time interim lightweight champion. Meanwhile, Saint-Denis bounced back from his own challenges, securing a second-round TKO victory over Dan Hooker just a week after Pimblett's defeat. Key details about the fighters include: Benoit Saint-Denis: - Record: 17-3 (all wins by stoppage) - Wins: 6 by KO/TKO, 11 by submission Paddy Pimblett: - Record: 23-4 (also with 6 KO/TKO wins and 11 submissions) The matchup, likely to be an all-action affair, could see Pimblett and Saint-Denis ranked No 6 and No 5 respectively at 155 lbs. While it remains uncertain if this fight will serve as the co-main event, its inclusion would enhance an already exciting card featuring McGregor's return. McGregor, who last fought in 2021 against Dustin Poirier, has yet to confirm his opponent for UFC 329, but speculation continues regarding a matchup with an active and prominent fighter.
Source: The Independent Sport - 2026-05-01