Chimaev vs DDP headlines UFC 319 in Chicago. Khamzat Chimaev battles defending champion Dricus Du Plessis in the high-stakes middleweight title battle. Preview the primary card, rumors, odds, controversies, and what this means for that division.
UFC 319 Headliners & Card Context
UFC 319 will unfold on August 16, 2025, in the United Centre in Chicago, marking the marketing’s to start with return to the city considering that UFC 238. The middleweight title main occasion pits undefeated challenger Khamzat Chimaev towards winner Dricus Du Plessis. This fight anchors a compelling combat card constructed for impact.
Staredowns on the Formal UFC 319 press convention illustrated fierce intensity, location the tone to get a showdown that lovers have extensive expected.
Highlight 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 admirers by click here distributing Robert Whittaker using a rare to start with-spherical confront-crank—earning a general performance bonus.
His UFC debut on U.S. soil considering that 2022 will come laden with complications—visa challenges tied to political controversy caused extensive delays—and required superior-level diplomatic aid to resolve.
Chimaev's ambition transcends the current: he has vocalized a drive to become a three-division winner, eyeing welterweight and lightweight heavyweight crowns upcoming.
The winner: Dricus Du Plessis (DDP)
Du Plessis is entering the cage undefeated from the UFC, getting secured dominant wins about top-tier opponents like Sean Strickland, Robert Whittaker, and Israel Adesanya. He stands for a specific, resilient, and gritty winner — along with a additionally-funds choose in early betting.
Notably, Israel Adesanya—even though at first crucial—voiced regard for DDP’s grit, suggesting “he finds a way” to earn stressed.
Undercard Shuffles & Added Drama
UFC 319’s undercard endured disruptions:
The light-weight King inexperienced vs. Diego Ferreira bout was canceled on account of eco-friendly’s injury.
A TUF 33 welterweight ultimate also collapsed hours ahead of the function.
In response, a last-moment middleweight battle that includes Baisangur Susurkaev vs. Eric Nolan was extra.
Regardless of the shakeups, the co-main party remains stacked, with Bellator veteran Aaron Pico generating his UFC debut towards Lerone Murphy. Other standout clashes consist of Michael “Venom” web page vs. Jared Cannonier, and Geoff Neal vs. Carlos Prates.
Odds & Predictions
Betting traces seriously favor Chimaev (approx. –210), although Du Plessis is +one hundred seventy.
DraftKings props lean towards KO/TKO or Decision outcomes.
followers on Tapology are approximately break up, which has a slight edge to Chimaev (53% vs. forty seven%).
Strategic Match-Up & supporter Assessment
Chimaev provides explosive stress, measurement, and elite grappling; he’s the intense threat who may have intimidated elites prior to. DDP counters with championship composure, tenacity, and assorted hanging. Analysts from “No Bets Barred” underline the unpredictability and higher payoff of the most important event.
income & Broadcast Notes
The struggle will air on ESPN+ pay out-for each-look at at 10 p.m. ET, with prelims beginning at six p.m. on ESPN platforms.
a brand new Paramount broadcast offer claims broader visibility for UFC’s most important party with the summer time.