As UFC 319 approaches, anticipation is building around the middleweight title bout between Dricus du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev. A recent social media update from du Plessis has sparked a flurry of Khamzat Chimaev UFC showdown predictions among fight fans eager to forecast how the contest will unfold.
Earlier this week, du Plessis posted photos from his sparring sessions, showcasing his preparation in striking and ground techniques. These images prompted fans to fill the comments with humorous predictions, many referencing Chimaev’s history of injuries and du Plessis’ unique fighting approach.
Fans joked with statements such as “DDP by unanimous confusion,” “DDP by the common cold,” and “DDP by Covid vaccine.” Many in the MMA community believe Chimaev’s best chance is an early knockout, while du Plessis is favored if the fight reaches later rounds.
In a CBS Sports interview with Shakiel Mahjouri, du Plessis acknowledged plans to capitalize on what he views as Chimaev’s questionable stamina to secure victory. UFC 319 is set for Saturday, August 17, at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. The official odds list Chimaev, born in Chechnya and representing the UAE, as the -180 favorite, with du Plessis as the +150 underdog.
Dricus du Plessis on the common error fighters make against Khamzat Chimaev
Du Plessis believes many fighters make a critical error when facing Khamzat Chimaev, which allows Chimaev—known as ‘Borz’—to dominate the fight. Recognized as one of the UFC’s top grapplers, Chimaev’s wrestling and submission skills make him particularly dangerous on the ground. According to du Plessis, most opponents try to avoid grappling exchanges with Chimaev, a mistake he does not intend to repeat.
During an interview with Shakiel Mahjouri, du Plessis explained his approach:
“Is Khamzat going to be able to take me down? Absolutely… I would hope so. Isn’t he like some Swedish champion or something? But then he has to deal with me on the ground, and he has to keep me there. Can I take Khamzat down? Absolutely. Am I going to take Khamzat down? Absolutely. I’m not scared of Khamzat’s wrestling. I’m not trying to stay off the ground with Khamzat. That’s the mistake everybody makes.”
—Dricus du Plessis, Middleweight Champion
Du Plessis is confident in both his striking and grappling abilities, highlighting that he plans to engage Chimaev where many others hesitate. This bold strategy points to an intense battle that could challenge Chimaev’s dominance in wrestling exchanges.
With UFC 319 set in a major venue like the United Center in Chicago, the middleweight title clash is poised to attract significant attention. The matchup’s high stakes and contrasting fighting styles have generated lively debate and predictions throughout the MMA world. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if du Plessis’ plan to counter Chimaev’s strengths succeeds or if Chimaev’s favored status holds true.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Khamzat Chimaev a millionaire?
A. As of now, Khamzat Chimaev’s net worth is around $3 million. At 30 years old, he is very wealthy and quite famous in Russia. The MMA star has an impressive record, winning all 14 of his professional fights, with 12 victories coming before the final bell.
Q. Who is better, Khamzat Chimaev or Khabib?
A. Chimaev is definitely the best. While Khabib and Islam are talented, the Chechen fighter shows greater skill. His focus on grappling and wrestling often leads to less exciting matches.
Q. Does Khamzat Chimaev have a disease?
A. In December 2020, the 30-year-old caught Covid and has been struggling with long-lasting symptoms, competing only four times over the past four years.
Q. Has anyone beaten Khamzat Chimaev?
A. Khamzat Chimaev’s record shows he has 14 wins, no losses, and no draws.