UFC 319 Preview: Khamzat Chimaev Aims to Reign — Can “Borz” Dethrone DDP in Chicago?
Chimaev vs DDP headlines UFC 319 in Chicago. Khamzat Chimaev battles defending winner Dricus Du Plessis in a substantial-stakes middleweight title combat. Preview the leading card, rumors, odds, controversies, and what it means for the division.
UFC 319 Headliners & Card Context
UFC 319 will unfold on August 16, 2025, at the United Center in Chicago, marking the promotion’s 1st return to the city because UFC 238. The middleweight title most important check here event pits undefeated challenger Khamzat Chimaev in opposition to champion Dricus Du Plessis. This battle anchors a powerful fight card constructed for effects.
Staredowns on the official UFC 319 press conference illustrated intense intensity, environment the tone to get a showdown that admirers have long predicted.
Highlight on Khamzat Chimaev — The Challenger’s Journey
Khamzat “Borz” Chimaev, undefeated at fourteen–0, is among MMA’s most feared finishers. Notably, he electrified enthusiasts by distributing Robert Whittaker which has a uncommon very first-round facial area-crank—earning a overall performance reward.
His UFC debut on U.S. soil due to the fact 2022 will come laden with problems—visa troubles tied to political controversy brought about long delays—and expected superior-amount diplomatic assistance to take care of.
Chimaev's ambition transcends the current: he has vocalized a motivation to be a three-division champion, eyeing welterweight and light-weight heavyweight crowns subsequent.
The winner: Dricus Du Plessis (DDP)
Du Plessis is getting into the cage undefeated within the UFC, having secured dominant wins more than major-tier opponents like Sean Strickland, Robert Whittaker, and Israel Adesanya. He stands as a specific, resilient, and gritty champion — and also a furthermore-dollars decide on in early betting.
Notably, Israel Adesanya—even though to begin with critical—voiced respect for DDP’s grit, suggesting “he finds a means” to get under pressure.
Undercard Shuffles & included Drama
UFC 319’s undercard suffered disruptions:
The lightweight King eco-friendly vs. Diego Ferreira bout was canceled resulting from Green’s harm.
A TUF 33 welterweight final also collapsed hours prior to the function.
In reaction, A final-moment middleweight battle featuring Baisangur Susurkaev vs. Eric Nolan was added.
Despite the shakeups, the co-major party continues to be stacked, with Bellator veteran Aaron Pico earning his UFC debut from Lerone Murphy. Other standout clashes incorporate Michael “Venom” Page vs. Jared Cannonier, and Geoff Neal vs. Carlos Prates.
Odds & Predictions
Betting traces intensely favor Chimaev (approx. –210), though Du Plessis is +170.
DraftKings props lean toward KO/TKO or choice results.
lovers on Tapology are nearly break up, with a slight edge to Chimaev (53% vs. forty seven%).
Strategic Match-Up & supporter Investigation
Chimaev brings explosive tension, size, and elite grappling; he’s the aggressive danger who may have intimidated elites before. DDP counters with championship composure, tenacity, and varied placing. Analysts from “No Bets Barred” underline the unpredictability and high payoff of the main party.
profits & Broadcast Notes
The combat will air on ESPN+ shell out-for each-check out at ten p.m. ET, with prelims commencing at six p.m. on ESPN platforms.
a brand new Paramount broadcast deal claims broader visibility for UFC’s greatest party with the summer.