One of the most anticipated title fights of the year will take place on August 16 at UFC 319 in Chicago, Illinois, where Khamzat Chimaev is set to challenge for the middleweight championship. The upcoming Khamzat Chimaev UFC title fight has fans and fighters divided as they debate who will emerge victorious in this pivotal matchup.
Whittaker identifies the decisive factor in the middleweight title showdown
Robert Whittaker, a former UFC middleweight champion who has faced both Khamzat Chimaev and Dricus du Plessis, recently shared his perspective on the key element that could decide the fight at UFC 319. Whittaker lost to du Plessis by TKO at UFC 290 and was submitted by Chimaev at UFC 308, experiences that give him unique insight into their styles and strengths.
Speaking in an interview on Fox Sports Australia’s Main Event, Whittaker highlighted Chimaev’s ability to secure takedowns as a vital component of the upcoming battle. However, he emphasized that Chimaev must finish the fight on the ground quickly; otherwise, du Plessis’ resilience could prove to be the difference.
“Honestly, I’d have to say Dricus would be a favorite. He probably is a favorite but I think I’m leaning towards Dricus. The question, the whole thing can be summed up. Chimaev will take him down, it’s will he finish him before he gets back up?”
Whittaker explained.
“That’s the million dollar question because if he doesn’t, if he doesn’t finish him on the ground, I think he loses.”
—Robert Whittaker, Former UFC Middleweight Champion
Whittaker’s plan for four final fights before retirement
During the same interview, Whittaker also discussed his future ambitions in the UFC, revealing that he aims to compete in four more bouts before retiring. He sees these fights as essential steps to reclaiming a title shot and finishing his career on a high note.
“Four fights. I see the light at the end of the tunnel,”
Whittaker stated.
“I see—yeah—four. I want four more. That’s me. I see the stepping stones needed to do what I want to do.”
“Four fights gets me into that title shot, gets me into a position to, you know, finish on top—to have that fairytale ending.”
—Robert Whittaker, Former UFC Middleweight Champion
Before advancing towards another title contender spot, Whittaker must first face rising contender Reinier de Ridder in a main event scheduled for UFC Abu Dhabi on July 26. The outcome of this fight will be crucial for Whittaker’s hopes to return to the middleweight championship scene.
Anticipation builds for an unforgettable UFC 319 main event in Chicago
As the date for UFC 319 approaches, Khamzat Chimaev’s challenge against the reigning middleweight champion remains one of the most hotly debated events in the division this year. Robert Whittaker’s analysis shines a light on the dramatic stakes involved, emphasizing the critical need for Chimaev to capitalize on early ground advantage.
With Dricus du Plessis widely regarded as a strong favorite, the fight promises to deliver intense competition that could shift the balance of power in the middleweight division. Fans in Chicago and around the world will be watching closely to see whether Chimaev can overcome the challenger and claim the title, or whether du Plessis will maintain his grip on the belt.
The results of UFC 319 will likely impact future matchmaking, title defenses, and the careers of both fighters, while also shaping Robert Whittaker’s plans as he aims to make a comeback and fight for glory one last time.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why was Khamzat Chimaev cancelled?
A. On February 11, UFC president Dana White revealed that the fight was canceled again because Chimaev was still dealing with the effects of COVID-19.
Q. Why did Khamzat Chimaev cancel?
A. On February 11, UFC president Dana White said the fight was cancelled again because Chimaev was still affected by COVID-19. On March 1, 2021, Chimaev shared on Instagram that he was retiring because of lung problems from COVID-19.