Chimaev vs DDP headlines UFC 319 in Chicago. Khamzat Chimaev battles defending champion Dricus Du Plessis within a significant-stakes middleweight title fight. Preview the primary card, rumors, odds, controversies, and what it means for the division.
UFC 319 Headliners & Card Context
UFC 319 will unfold on August 16, 2025, read more within the United Middle in Chicago, marking the advertising’s 1st return to the town because UFC 238. The middleweight title key occasion pits undefeated challenger Khamzat Chimaev against winner Dricus Du Plessis. This struggle anchors a persuasive fight card designed for affect.
Staredowns on the Formal UFC 319 press convention illustrated fierce intensity, environment the tone for any showdown that lovers have extended predicted.
Spotlight on Khamzat Chimaev — The Challenger’s Journey
Khamzat “Borz” Chimaev, undefeated at fourteen–0, is one of MMA’s most feared finishers. Notably, he electrified followers by submitting Robert Whittaker having a unusual 1st-round experience-crank—earning a effectiveness reward.
His UFC debut on U.S. soil since 2022 will come laden with complications—visa issues tied to political controversy prompted long delays—and required superior-level diplomatic help to solve.
Chimaev's ambition transcends the present: he has vocalized a need to become a three-division winner, eyeing welterweight and light heavyweight crowns upcoming.
The winner: Dricus Du Plessis (DDP)
Du Plessis is moving into the cage undefeated while in the UFC, acquiring secured dominant wins over top-tier opponents like Sean Strickland, Robert Whittaker, and Israel Adesanya. He stands being a exact, resilient, and gritty winner — along with a in addition-cash choose in early betting.
Notably, Israel Adesanya—although originally essential—voiced regard for DDP’s grit, suggesting “he finds a way” to gain stressed.
Undercard Shuffles & Added Drama
UFC 319’s undercard suffered disruptions:
The lightweight King eco-friendly vs. Diego Ferreira bout was canceled on account of environmentally friendly’s damage.
A TUF 33 welterweight final also collapsed hours ahead of the occasion.
In reaction, A final-moment middleweight battle that includes Baisangur Susurkaev vs. Eric Nolan was additional.
Regardless of the shakeups, the co-primary function continues to be stacked, with Bellator veteran Aaron Pico creating his UFC debut versus Lerone Murphy. Other standout clashes include things like Michael “Venom” web page vs. Jared Cannonier, and Geoff Neal vs. Carlos Prates.
Odds & Predictions
Betting strains greatly favor Chimaev (approx. –210), although Du Plessis is +170.
DraftKings props lean towards KO/TKO or choice outcomes.
lovers on Tapology are just about break up, that has a slight edge to Chimaev (fifty three% vs. 47%).
Strategic Match-Up & lover Examination
Chimaev provides explosive strain, measurement, and elite grappling; he’s the aggressive menace who has intimidated elites right before. DDP counters with championship composure, tenacity, and various placing. Analysts from “No Bets Barred” underline the unpredictability and high payoff of this major party.
revenue & Broadcast Notes
The battle will air on ESPN+ fork out-for each-watch at ten p.m. ET, with prelims beginning at six p.m. on ESPN platforms.
a different Paramount broadcast offer guarantees broader visibility for UFC’s largest occasion on the summer season.