At UFC 319, Khamzat Chimaev executed a clear and dominant wrestling-based game plan that led him to a unanimous decision victory over Dricus Du Plessis, securing the middleweight title. Although Chimaev performed effectively throughout the fight, he briefly considered altering his approach before the fourth round. His corner, including UFC lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan, urged him to maintain the original strategy, advice that ultimately ensured Chimaev’s championship success.
During the fight’s brief pause before round four, Chimaev asked Tsarukyan if he should shift tactics and start boxing more with Du Plessis, who is known for his striking. Tsarukyan advised him to stay focused on the wrestling dominance that had been working, reminding the champion that changing plans mid-fight could jeopardize his lead. In a recent interview with Adam Zubayraev, Tsarukyan said,
“Before going into the fourth, he says, ‘Brother, now can I move around in the standup?’ I said, ‘No, go in, do the same thing, you’ll win three to nothing. Why come up with something new?’”
—Arman Tsarukyan, UFC Lightweight Fighter
Tsarukyan’s counsel was crucial, as Chimaev’s wrestling ability had kept Du Plessis off balance and without answers. If Chimaev had abandoned his ground-heavy game plan, Du Plessis’ striking might have given the South African an opportunity to turn the fight around.
Analysis by Joe Rogan Highlights the Huge Skill Gap
Following the fight, legendary UFC commentator Joe Rogan examined the significant divide between Chimaev and Du Plessis in terms of grappling proficiency. Rogan emphasized just how dominant Chimaev’s wrestling was, explaining that Dricus seemed completely overwhelmed and unprepared to counter such control. He stated,
“For Dricus to come back from that and bridge the gap between him and Khamzat, that is a tall task.”
—Joe Rogan, UFC Commentator
“That kind of grappling dominance was not just a level, it was multiple levels. Dricus didn’t have any answer for that.”
—Joe Rogan, UFC Commentator
Rogan also voiced some skepticism about whether Du Plessis had adequate training partners or coaching to handle someone with Chimaev’s skill set. His analysis raised questions about the readiness of other contenders to face the newly crowned middleweight champion.
What This Victory Means for Khamzat Chimaev and the Middleweight Division
Chimaev’s decision to adhere strictly to his wrestling-based game plan paid off by earning him the UFC middleweight championship, showcasing his discipline and strategic focus even amidst temptation to change tactics. The trust between fighter and corner was pivotal in maintaining the fight’s momentum in his favor.
With Chimaev now holding the middleweight title, fans and analysts alike wonder who can realistically challenge his supremacy in the division. The stark difference in skill showcased at UFC 319 underlines the challenges other contenders face if they hope to dethrone him. Meanwhile, questions arise about Arman Tsarukyan’s future prospects, as many anticipate if his role in this fight will translate into his own title opportunity down the line.
This fight reinforced Chimaev’s status as one of the most dominant forces in the UFC right now, emphasizing how a steadfast game plan and corner advice can dictate the outcome of high-stakes combat. The middleweight division awaits to see whether anyone will close the gap or if Chimaev will continue to outmatch all challengers in the near future.