With UFC 318 now behind us, attention has already started to turn toward next month’s blockbuster event.
Max Holloway defeated Dustin Poirier in a great ending to July 19, even if ‘The Diamond’ didn’t get to retire with a win in front of his home fans.
Another huge main event is just weeks away as the Octagon returns to Chicago on August 16 for UFC 319.
While Dricus du Plessis facing Khamzat Chimaev with the middleweight belt on the line is one of the most highly anticipated title fights of the year, some fans were left a little wanting when looking at the rest of the card.
Fortunately, the promotion revealed on July 19 that they still have one big matchup to announce for the card, which quickly led to speculation online.
Dana White was asked about Aaron Pico vs Movsar Evloev taking place in the co-main event of UFC 319
During the UFC 318 broadcast, the PPV main card for UFC 319 was shown on screen, revealing that the co-main event for August 16 is still to be determined.
Many fans quickly thought of a rescheduled matchup that could fill the ‘TBD vs TBD’ slot following an unfortunate cancellation.
Aaron Pico called to face Movsar Evloev on this card, saying that he “understands there’s an opening” for them to be rebooked after the Russian withdrew from their original date on July 26.
With the fight originally being set to take place over five rounds in what would likely decide the next challenger for Alexander Volkanovski’s title, Pico versus Evloev would add some more stakes to UFC 319.
During his post-fight press conference, Dana White was asked about whether this matchup could become the co-main event, stating that he didn’t have this information at this time.
“Right here, right now, I have no idea.”
Fans pitch alternative options for the vacant UFC 319 co-main event
The vacant co-main event spot for UFC 319 immediately got fans talking on social media and while many made reference to the potential for Aaron Pico and Movsar Evloev to be rescheduled, some had other ideas.
Several lightweight and welterweight matchups were pitched, including Paddy Pimblett facing Justin Gaethje which was previously rumored for August 16 before both men shut it down.
Ian Machado Garry also received several votes with fans naming different opponents for him like Belal Muhammad or Sean Brady.
With UFC 319 less than a month away, it wouldn’t be surprising if this spot on the card were filled in the coming days.
