Chimaev vs DDP headlines UFC 319 in Chicago. Khamzat Chimaev battles defending champion get more info Dricus Du Plessis in a significant-stakes middleweight title fight. Preview the principle card, rumors, odds, controversies, and what this means for the division.
UFC 319 Headliners & Card Context
UFC 319 will unfold on August 16, 2025, within the United Heart in Chicago, marking the advertising’s 1st return to the city considering the fact that UFC 238. The middleweight title most important function pits undefeated challenger Khamzat Chimaev versus winner Dricus Du Plessis. This battle anchors a persuasive battle card designed for impression.
Staredowns for the Formal UFC 319 push conference illustrated intense depth, environment the tone for a showdown that enthusiasts have extensive expected.
Highlight on Khamzat Chimaev — The Challenger’s Journey
Khamzat “Borz” Chimaev, undefeated at 14–0, is one of MMA’s most feared finishers. Notably, he electrified supporters by distributing Robert Whittaker having a rare very first-spherical deal with-crank—earning a overall performance reward.
His UFC debut on U.S. soil due to the fact 2022 arrives laden with difficulties—visa difficulties tied to political controversy prompted very long delays—and necessary significant-degree diplomatic support 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 up coming.
The winner: Dricus Du Plessis (DDP)
Du Plessis is entering the cage undefeated from the UFC, acquiring secured dominant wins over leading-tier opponents like Sean Strickland, Robert Whittaker, and Israel Adesanya. He stands as being a specific, resilient, and gritty champion — along with a as well as-income pick in early betting.
Notably, Israel Adesanya—even though at first vital—voiced regard for DDP’s grit, suggesting “he finds a way” to win stressed.
Undercard Shuffles & included Drama
UFC 319’s undercard experienced disruptions:
The light-weight King eco-friendly vs. Diego Ferreira bout was canceled resulting from eco-friendly’s personal injury.
A TUF 33 welterweight remaining also collapsed several hours before the party.
In response, a last-minute middleweight battle featuring Baisangur Susurkaev vs. Eric Nolan was additional.
Despite the shakeups, the co-principal event remains stacked, with Bellator veteran Aaron Pico producing his UFC debut versus Lerone Murphy. Other standout clashes consist of Michael “Venom” webpage vs. Jared Cannonier, and Geoff Neal vs. Carlos Prates.
Odds & Predictions
Betting traces heavily favor Chimaev (approx. –210), while Du Plessis is +one hundred seventy.
DraftKings props lean towards KO/TKO or conclusion results.
Fans on Tapology are virtually split, using a slight edge to Chimaev (fifty three% vs. 47%).
Strategic Match-Up & supporter Examination
Chimaev provides explosive pressure, dimensions, and elite grappling; he’s the aggressive risk who has intimidated elites before. DDP counters with championship composure, tenacity, and diverse striking. Analysts from “No Bets Barred” underline the unpredictability and significant payoff of this main party.
gross sales & Broadcast Notes
The fight will air on ESPN+ spend-for every-view at ten p.m. ET, with prelims starting at six p.m. on ESPN platforms.
a fresh Paramount broadcast offer guarantees broader visibility for UFC’s most important function of your summer.