UFC lightweight contender Benoit Saint-Denis cleared the air about his health as fans speculate he’s suffering from a staph infection.
Benoit Saint-Denis will look to make a statement against former lightweight interim title challenger Paddy Pimblett in the UFC 329 co-main event this Saturday. UFC 329 is headlined by Conor McGregor’s long-awaited return to the Octagon against former BMF titleholder Max Holloway.
Saint-Denis has won four fights in a row since back-to-back losses to Renato Moicano and Dustin Poirier. He most recently finished Dan Hooker at UFC 325 to move up the lightweight rankings.
Ahead of UFC 329, Saint-Denis gave fans a scare when an image of him kicking a heavy bag appeared to show bruising on his foot. Many speculated that Saint-Denis was suffering from a staph infection ahead of the Pimblett fight after the image went viral.
Benoit Saint-Denis denies staph infection after viral training photo
In a recent interview with RMC Sport Combat, Saint-Denis addressed concerns ahead of UFC 329.
Benoit Saint Denis desmiente haber tenido estafilococo
Dice que todo fue bien en el camp y que eso es una costra, creer o reventar#UFC329 pic.twitter.com/U0CjtUNZOc
— MMA Latinoamérica (@ClubDeLasMMA) July 7, 2026
“I don’t have a staph infection. Things can spread quickly on social media, and it’s all a bit ridiculous,” Saint-Denis said.
“I had a scab on my foot, it’s not a staph infection. These things can happen. Training camp was well managed, no fatigue too. Having more preparation time allowed us to better manage everything. I’m happy, in good shape, and the weight cut is going well.
“All that’s left is to pass this first test and then we’ll see him at the weigh-in. Ready to take on the English!”
As of this writing, Saint-Denis appears fit and ready to compete this weekend at UFC 329. But after a checkered past featuring multiple staph infections suffered in training camps, Saint-Denis will enter the Octagon with some questioning his readiness.
What is your prediction for Paddy Pimblett vs. Benoit Saint-Denis? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!