Dricus Du Plessis vs. Khamzat Chimaev Set to Headline UFC 319: Who Will Rule the Middleweight Division?

UFC 319 is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated events of the year. UFC CEO Dana White officially announced that the middleweight title fight between Dricus Du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev will headline the pay-per-view card on August 16 at the United Center in Chicago. This marks the promotion’s first return to the Windy City since 2019, and they’re bringing a main event that promises fireworks.

So, what makes this fight so big? Let’s take a closer look.

Why Is This Fight So Important for the UFC Middleweight Division?

This bout isn’t just a title defense. It’s a clash of two unbeaten warriors (at least in the UFC) who bring very different paths and styles into the Octagon. Dricus Du Plessis, the reigning champion from South Africa, has been on a historic run. He’s riding an 11-fight win streak, including a perfect 9-0 UFC record.

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His rise to the title came in a split decision win over Sean Strickland in 2024. Since then, he’s successfully defended his belt against Israel Adesanya and again in a rematch with Strickland. Du Plessis has proven he’s not just a flash in the pan. He’s a durable, relentless fighter with a knack for breaking opponents down over time.

On the other side is Khamzat Chimaev, the undefeated juggernaut with a professional record of 14-0. His journey has been filled with highlights and hurdles. He debuted in the UFC in 2020 and immediately caught attention by winning two fights just ten days apart. His explosive style and grappling dominance turned heads, but his momentum slowed due to health complications related to COVID-19.

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Despite setbacks, Chimaev remains one of the most feared contenders in the sport. He has already beaten some of the biggest names in MMA, including Kamaru Usman, Gilbert Burns, and most recently, Robert Whittaker.

How Did Dricus Du Plessis Become Champion?

Du Plessis didn’t take shortcuts. He climbed the ladder with grit and smart match-making. After dispatching names like Derek Brunson and Robert Whittaker earlier in his UFC career, he earned his shot at Sean Strickland. Their five-round war ended in a close split decision in Du Plessis’s favor, making him the first South African UFC champion.

Instead of sitting on the throne, he went straight to work. His defense against Adesanya was a statement win, showing he could handle one of the sport’s most technical strikers. The rematch with Strickland sealed the deal: Du Plessis is no fluke. He’s a fighting champion who wants to test himself against the very best.

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What Makes Khamzat Chimaev Such a Dangerous Opponent?

Chimaev doesn’t just win fights. He dominates them. His most recent performance against Robert Whittaker was nothing short of shocking. He submitted Whittaker in the first round and didn’t take a single punch. That’s right—Whittaker landed zero strikes.

That fight alone was enough to silence critics and earn him the title shot. Before that, Chimaev took on Kamaru Usman and Gilbert Burns. The Usman fight was short-notice for both men, but Chimaev did enough to secure the win. Against Burns, he was tested, but his pace and power carried him through a thrilling decision.

Even when he was sidelined due to health problems, Chimaev remained a threat. Now at full health, he’s more focused than ever.

What Can We Expect from the Fight at UFC 319?

This is a classic power vs. pressure matchup. Du Plessis likes to push a steady pace, wear opponents down, and find his opening in later rounds. He’s also shown a solid chin and cardio, which will be important against someone like Chimaev.

Chimaev, meanwhile, will likely try to end things early. He comes out fast, closes distance with speed, and either puts you on your back or knocks you out cold. But what happens if Du Plessis survives the storm? That could turn the tide.

Both fighters are well-rounded, but Chimaev’s wrestling advantage could be a deciding factor—if he can get Du Plessis to the mat consistently.

Who Will Be Crowned King at UFC 319?

We’re looking at two undefeated UFC records, two hungry warriors, and one gold belt on the line. UFC 319 is more than just a fight card. It’s a showdown between calculated violence and controlled chaos.

Du Plessis brings consistency and championship poise. Chimaev brings raw power and unpredictable energy. Both have what it takes to walk out with the belt, but only one will.

August 16 in Chicago is going to be unforgettable.