Khamzat Chimaev will challenge Dricus du Plessis for the UFC Middleweight title at UFC 319, scheduled for August 16 at the United Center in Chicago. This highly anticipated Khamzat Chimaev UFC fight features two rivals ready to prove their dominance in the division.
Overview of the Middleweight Championship Bout
Dricus du Plessis enters the octagon determined to defend his UFC Middleweight title for the third consecutive time. He initially captured the belt after defeating Sean Strickland and subsequently secured wins over Israel Adesanya and a rematch with Strickland. His reign has established him as a formidable champion in the division.
On the other side, Khamzat Chimaev remains undefeated since his UFC debut in 2020. The 31-year-old has impressed fans and experts alike with his fast-paced and versatile fighting style, including a significant victory over Robert Whittaker in his last outing. The bout is expected to be a critical test for both athletes.
Fight Card Highlights Beyond the Main Event
In addition to the headline middleweight title fight, UFC 319 will feature several other compelling matchups. Lerone Murphy is slated to face Aaron Pico in the co-main event. Another notable contest includes Jared Cannonier against Michael Page, promising an engaging clash of styles. The card also showcases fighters like Geoff Neal, Carlos Prates, Tim Elliott, and Kai Asakura, among others.
Scheduling and Viewing Information for UFC 319
UFC 319 is set for Saturday, August 16, with the main card beginning at 3 a.m. UK time on Sunday morning. The event will take place at the United Center in Chicago. UK fans can watch the fights live on TNT Sports and discovery+, while the early preliminary bouts will be available via UFC Fight Pass. Coverage and updates will also be provided by talkSPORT and its MMA YouTube channel.
Complete UFC 319 Fight Card
The fight card is subject to change but currently includes:
Main Card
- Dricus du Plessis vs Khamzat Chimaev – UFC Middleweight title fight
- Lerone Murphy vs Aaron Pico
- Geoff Neal vs Carlos Prates
- Jared Cannonier vs Michael Page
- Tim Elliott vs Kai Asakura
Preliminary Card
- King Green vs Diego Ferreira
- Gerald Meerschaert vs Michael Oleksiejzuk
- Jessica Andrade vs Llopy Godinez
- Chase Hooper vs Alexander Hernandez
Early Preliminary Card
- Edson Barboza vs Drakkar Klose
- Bryan Battle vs Nursulton Ruziboev
- Karine Silva vs Dione Barbosa
Insights and Predictions Ahead of the Title Match
Dricus du Plessis has strong support from his training team, including fellow South African Mark Hulme. Hulme expressed confidence in du Plessis’ ability to retain the title. Speaking exclusively to talkSPORT, he said:
“Dricus finishes him under three.” —Mark Hulme, Training Partner of Dricus du Plessis
“I can’t see [Chimaev] lasting more than three. He’s going to come out and burn himself.” —Mark Hulme, Training Partner of Dricus du Plessis
“I don’t think people have seen the extent of Dricus’ wrestling, and if I know him, it’s that he’s got a point to prove.” —Mark Hulme, Training Partner of Dricus du Plessis
“If people think that Khamzat is the guy to wrestle, he might just hold him off and shove his head up his a**.” —Mark Hulme, Training Partner of Dricus du Plessis
These remarks highlight the strategic wrestling ability that du Plessis is expected to bring, potentially complicating Chimaev’s pursuit to remain undefeated.
Event Significance and Future Outlook
The outcome of UFC 319 will significantly shape the middleweight division’s landscape. Khamzat Chimaev’s undefeated streak and dynamic skill set have made him one of the most exciting fighters to watch in recent years, while Dricus du Plessis’ solid title defenses bolster his reputation as a resilient champion. Victory for either fighter could set up future high-profile matchups within the UFC.
Fans should expect a competitive and intense contest as both fighters aim to solidify or claim the top spot in middleweight MMA.