At UFC 319, Khamzat Chimaev emerged as the new UFC middleweight champion by delivering a commanding performance against the reigning titleholder, Driscus Du Plessis. Over the course of five intense rounds, Chimaev showcased his superior grappling skills and takedown control, which ultimately secured his victory and the championship belt.
Khamzat Chimaev Secures Victory with Consistent Takedown Strategy
From the opening seconds of the title bout, Chimaev set the tone by taking Du Plessis down immediately and moving into a crucifix submission position while landing light punches to the head. Throughout the first round, Du Plessis struggled to mount any offense and was mostly confined to defending from his back. Although he briefly freed his right arm, he remained unable to fully escape Chimaev’s control. Near the end of the round, Du Plessis attempted a guillotine choke but failed to capitalize before the bell.
The second round followed a similar pattern, with Chimaev quickly securing another takedown despite a short defensive effort by Du Plessis. The champion remained unable to counter Chimaev’s wrestling dominance. By the third round, Chimaev intensified his assault with damaging elbows, further wearing down Du Plessis. The crowd’s reaction grew mixed due to the champion’s limited defensive actions, but the fight persisted.
Champion’s Resistance Is Overwhelmed as Chimaev Continues Relentless Attack
In the fourth round, Du Plessis managed to defend the initial takedown attempt, but Chimaev’s persistence paid off as he secured his seventh takedown out of eight tries. A referee-enforced separation late in the round briefly interrupted the grappling, but Chimaev quickly resumed control and locked in another submission hold until the round ended.
The fifth and final round saw Du Plessis rally briefly, fighting off the initial takedown. Nevertheless, Chimaev succeeded in securing his tenth takedown of the fight within the first 20 seconds. Du Plessis was able to escape midway through the round, showing some resistance, but Chimaev regained dominant position to maintain momentum.
With about a minute and a half left, the fighters were stood up, allowing for striking exchanges. Both men attempted submission attempts but neither found success. Ultimately, the judges awarded Chimaev a unanimous decision victory with a score of 50-44, crowning him the new UFC middleweight champion.
Impact of Chimaev’s Title Win and Future Implications
Khamzat Chimaev’s decisive takedown mastery and ground control during UFC 319 highlight his potential to dominate the middleweight division moving forward. His ability to control and neutralize a reigning champion like Du Plessis establishes him as a formidable force in the UFC. The performance signals a shift in the division’s hierarchy, setting the stage for future title defenses and high-profile matchups.