The highly anticipated main event of UFC 319 will feature a clash between reigning Middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis and the undefeated contender Khamzat Chimaev on August 16, at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. This bout represents a pivotal moment for both fighters, as they enter the octagon with impressive win streaks and the UFC Middleweight title on the line.
Du Plessis arrives as a proven champion defending his belt for the third time, entering the fight unbeaten in his last eleven bouts. Meanwhile, Chimaev brings a flawless 14-0 professional record, having overwhelmed every UFC opponent through his dominant wrestling skills. The stakes are high, with the victor emerging as the undisputed Middleweight champion of the UFC.
Background and Current Form of the Main Competitors
Khamzat Chimaev has been dominant inside the octagon, using his wrestling prowess to secure victories against top-tier fighters such as Robert Whittaker, Kamaru Usman, and Kevin Holland. Despite his success, Chimaev has not competed since October of last year, raising questions about potential ring rust after nearly a year away from competition. He has, however, prepared extensively with an all-star training camp aiming to capture his first UFC world title.
Dricus du Plessis has established himself as one of South Africa’s greatest fighters after a February victory over Sean Strickland, marking his second win against the American and extending his career record to 23-2. He enters this fight defending his Middleweight crown, confident in his ability to maintain his championship status in this crucial event.
Co-Main Event: Neal and Prates Seek Redemption After Defeats
In the co-main event of UFC 319, Geoff Neal will face Carlos Prates, two fighters who recently suffered losses against Ian Machado Garry. Neal was defeated by Garry at UFC 298, while Prates lost by unanimous decision after five rounds in an April ESPN main event against the same opponent. Neal has also secured a victory against Rafael dos Anjos last October but is eager to regain momentum with a significant win. Prates, holding a stronger record between the two, will look to bounce back effectively from his first UFC defeat.
Middleweight Duel: Jared Cannonier vs. Michael Page
Jared Cannonier and Michael Page will square off in a middleweight contest expected to be highly competitive. Both are aiming to climb the UFC rankings following recent wins; Page made a successful return to Middleweight in February. Each fighter has notable knockout power, with about half of their victories ending before the final bell. With only three losses apiece, this matchup looks set to deliver an intense fight where the outcome could be decided by raw strength and resilience.
Tim Elliot and Kai Asakura Battle for Consistency and Survival
Former Ultimate Fighter winner Tim Elliot returns after a 17-month hiatus to take on Kai Asakura, who faces pressure to avoid consecutive losses within the UFC. Elliot’s recent record reflects mixed results, having won only two of his last five fights and unable to secure three wins in a row since competing in Titan FC. Asakura, despite success in Japan, suffered a loss in his UFC debut at UFC 310, making this fight critical for his continuation with the promotion. Both fighters are motivated to restore momentum in their mixed martial arts careers during this pivotal bout.
Overview of Prelims: Fighters Seek Comebacks and Record Milestones
Six preliminary fights will set the stage for UFC 319’s main card, featuring competitors eager to rebound from previous setbacks. Notably, King Green faces Carlos Diego Ferreira, both aiming to recover from recent losses. UFC veteran Gerald Meerschaert pursues another victory with the goal of setting the record for the most finishes in Middleweight history as he faces Polish contender Michał Oleksiejczuk.
The only women’s bout on the prelims will see former UFC Women’s Strawweight champion Jessica Andrade looking to reassert herself as a title contender against Loopy Godinez, who comes off a win against Julia Polastri. The Lightweight division will also be represented by two fights: Chase Hooper vs. Alexander Hernandez, and Edson Barboza vs. Drakkar Klose. The prelims will open with Bryan Battle, who attempts to extend a five-fight unbeaten streak against newcomer Nursulton Ruziboev.
Early Preliminary Highlight: Women’s Flyweight Contenders Battle for Ranking
The early preliminaries will feature a notable Women’s Flyweight bout between Karina Silva and JJ Aldrich. Both fighters are nearing the top ten of their division and view this matchup as an opportunity to make significant strides in the rankings. Scheduled for August 16 in Chicago, this fight could be pivotal in shaping the future landscape of the Women’s Flyweight class.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Khamzat Chimaev a millionaire?
A. Currently, Khamzat Chimaev’s net worth is around $3 million. At 30 years old, he is extremely wealthy and famous in Russia. The MMA star has won all 14 of his professional fights, with 12 victories by stoppage.
Q. Who is better, Khamzat Chimaev or Khabib?
A. Chimaev is definitely the better choice. While Khabib and Islam are excellent fighters, the Chechen has superior skills. His focus on pure grappling and wrestling often leads to fights that some might find boring.
Q. Does Khamzat Chimaev have a disease?
A. At 30, the individual caught Covid in December 2020. Since then, they’ve struggled with ongoing symptoms, competing only four times in as many years.
Q. Has anyone beaten Khamzat Chimaev?
A. Khamzat Chimaev has fought in 14 matches and hasn’t lost or tied any of them.