Chimaev vs DDP headlines UFC 319 in Chicago. Khamzat Chimaev battles defending winner Dricus Du Plessis in a superior-stakes middleweight title combat. Preview the key card, rumors, odds, controversies, and what this means for that division.
UFC 319 Headliners & Card Context
UFC 319 will unfold on August sixteen, 2025, within the United Center in Chicago, marking the advertising’s initially return to town given that UFC 238. The middleweight title principal occasion pits undefeated challenger Khamzat Chimaev against winner Dricus Du Plessis. This battle anchors a persuasive struggle card created for impact.
Staredowns with the Formal UFC 319 press meeting illustrated intense intensity, location the tone for your showdown that supporters have extensive anticipated.
Spotlight on Khamzat Chimaev — The Challenger’s Journey
Khamzat “Borz” Chimaev, undefeated at 14–0, is among MMA’s most feared finishers. Notably, he electrified followers by submitting Robert Whittaker with a exceptional 1st-round encounter-crank—earning a effectiveness bonus.
His UFC debut on U.S. soil considering that 2022 will come laden with issues—visa challenges tied to political controversy caused lengthy delays—and required high-stage diplomatic help to resolve.
Chimaev's ambition transcends the current: he has vocalized a motivation to be a three-division winner, eyeing welterweight and light heavyweight crowns up coming.
The Champion: Dricus Du Plessis (DDP)
Du Plessis is entering the cage undefeated in the UFC, owning secured dominant wins more than top-tier opponents like Sean Strickland, Robert Whittaker, and Israel Adesanya. He stands being a exact, resilient, and gritty champion — and a plus-income select in early betting.
Notably, Israel Adesanya—though initially significant—voiced respect for DDP’s grit, suggesting “he finds a method” to acquire under pressure.
Undercard Shuffles & extra Drama
UFC 319’s undercard endured disruptions:
The light-weight King inexperienced vs. Diego Ferreira bout was canceled due to Green’s harm.
A TUF 33 welterweight last also collapsed hours before the event.
In reaction, a last-moment middleweight fight showcasing Baisangur Susurkaev vs. Eric Nolan was extra.
Despite the shakeups, the co-primary celebration stays stacked, with Bellator veteran Aaron Pico building his UFC debut against Lerone Murphy. Other standout clashes include things like Michael “Venom” web site vs. Jared Cannonier, and Geoff Neal vs. Carlos Prates.
Odds & Predictions
Betting lines heavily favor Chimaev (approx. –210), while Du Plessis is +one hundred seventy.
DraftKings props lean toward KO/TKO or final decision results.
lovers on Tapology are just about split, using a slight edge to Chimaev (53% vs. forty seven%).
Strategic Match-Up & admirer Evaluation
Chimaev provides explosive force, sizing, and elite grappling; he’s the intense threat who has intimidated elites prior to. DDP counters with championship composure, tenacity, and various hanging. Analysts from “No Bets Barred” underline the unpredictability and higher payoff website of this key party.
product sales & Broadcast Notes
The struggle will air on ESPN+ shell out-per-see at 10 p.m. ET, with prelims beginning at six p.m. on ESPN platforms.
a completely new Paramount broadcast deal claims broader visibility for UFC’s major party of your summertime.