Chimaev vs DDP headlines UFC 319 in Chicago. Khamzat Chimaev battles defending champion Dricus Du Plessis in the superior-stakes middleweight title combat. 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, with the United Center in Chicago, marking the advertising’s initially return to the city given that UFC 238. The middleweight title main occasion pits undefeated challenger Khamzat Chimaev in opposition to champion Dricus Du Plessis. This battle anchors a persuasive fight card designed for influence.
Staredowns for the Formal UFC 319 push convention illustrated intense depth, environment the tone for the showdown that fans have extensive anticipated.
Spotlight on Khamzat Chimaev — The Challenger’s Journey
Khamzat “Borz” Chimaev, undefeated at 14–0, is one of website MMA’s most feared finishers. Notably, he electrified lovers by publishing Robert Whittaker having a exceptional to start with-round confront-crank—earning a performance bonus.
His UFC debut on U.S. soil considering the fact that 2022 will come laden with difficulties—visa challenges tied to political controversy prompted lengthy delays—and needed higher-amount diplomatic aid to take care of.
Chimaev's ambition transcends the existing: he has vocalized a want to be A 3-division champion, eyeing welterweight and light-weight heavyweight crowns up coming.
The winner: Dricus Du Plessis (DDP)
Du Plessis is moving into the cage undefeated within the UFC, owning secured dominant wins in excess of prime-tier opponents like Sean Strickland, Robert Whittaker, and Israel Adesanya. He stands being a specific, resilient, and gritty winner — and a furthermore-dollars pick in early betting.
Notably, Israel Adesanya—while initially critical—voiced respect for DDP’s grit, suggesting “he finds a way” to win under pressure.
Undercard Shuffles & extra Drama
UFC 319’s undercard endured disruptions:
The lightweight King environmentally friendly vs. Diego Ferreira bout was canceled because of inexperienced’s damage.
A TUF 33 welterweight closing also collapsed hrs before the occasion.
In reaction, A final-minute middleweight combat that includes Baisangur Susurkaev vs. Eric Nolan was extra.
Regardless of the shakeups, the co-main function continues to be stacked, with Bellator veteran Aaron Pico producing his UFC debut versus Lerone Murphy. Other standout clashes include things like Michael “Venom” webpage vs. Jared Cannonier, and Geoff Neal vs. Carlos Prates.
Odds & Predictions
Betting traces intensely favor Chimaev (approx. –210), though Du Plessis is +one hundred seventy.
DraftKings props lean toward KO/TKO or Decision results.
supporters on Tapology are nearly break up, that has a slight edge to Chimaev (fifty three% vs. forty seven%).
Strategic Match-Up & Fan Evaluation
Chimaev delivers explosive force, measurement, and elite grappling; he’s the intense threat who may have intimidated elites right before. DDP counters with championship composure, tenacity, and varied hanging. Analysts from “No Bets Barred” underline the unpredictability and substantial payoff of the principal event.
income & Broadcast Notes
The struggle will air on ESPN+ pay back-for each-look at at ten p.m. ET, with prelims starting at 6 p.m. on ESPN platforms.
a different Paramount broadcast deal claims broader visibility for UFC’s largest party with the summertime.