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 champion Dricus Du Plessis in a very high-stakes middleweight title struggle. Preview the leading card, rumors, odds, controversies, and what this means with 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 very first return to the town because UFC 238. The middleweight title key party pits undefeated challenger Khamzat Chimaev against click here winner Dricus Du Plessis. This fight anchors a compelling fight card crafted for affect.
Staredowns in the Formal UFC 319 push meeting illustrated fierce depth, location the tone for the showdown that enthusiasts have very long anticipated.
Highlight on Khamzat Chimaev — The Challenger’s Journey
Khamzat “Borz” Chimaev, undefeated at 14–0, is among MMA’s most feared finishers. Notably, he electrified admirers by distributing Robert Whittaker having a uncommon 1st-round experience-crank—earning a efficiency reward.
His UFC debut on U.S. soil considering that 2022 will come laden with difficulties—visa troubles tied to political controversy caused prolonged delays—and required substantial-amount diplomatic aid to solve.
Chimaev's ambition transcends the current: he has vocalized a desire to be A 3-division champion, eyeing welterweight and lightweight heavyweight crowns future.
The Champion: Dricus Du Plessis (DDP)
Du Plessis is getting into the cage undefeated from the UFC, obtaining secured dominant wins over major-tier opponents like Sean Strickland, Robert Whittaker, and Israel Adesanya. He stands as a specific, resilient, and gritty winner — as well as a as well as-dollars select in early betting.
Notably, Israel Adesanya—however originally vital—voiced regard for DDP’s grit, suggesting “he finds a way” to win stressed.
Undercard Shuffles & included Drama
UFC 319’s undercard suffered disruptions:
The lightweight King eco-friendly vs. Diego Ferreira bout was canceled due to environmentally friendly’s damage.
A TUF 33 welterweight ultimate also collapsed hrs prior to the event.
In response, a last-moment middleweight combat showcasing Baisangur Susurkaev vs. Eric Nolan was additional.
Regardless of the shakeups, the co-primary occasion continues to be stacked, with Bellator veteran Aaron Pico earning his UFC debut from Lerone Murphy. Other standout clashes consist of Michael “Venom” Page vs. Jared Cannonier, and Geoff Neal vs. Carlos Prates.
Odds & Predictions
Betting lines heavily favor Chimaev (approx. –210), while Du Plessis is +a hundred and seventy.
DraftKings props lean towards KO/TKO or choice results.
supporters on Tapology are practically break up, with a slight edge to Chimaev (fifty three% vs. forty seven%).
Strategic Match-Up & enthusiast Assessment
Chimaev brings explosive strain, sizing, and elite grappling; he’s the intense danger who has intimidated elites before. DDP counters with championship composure, tenacity, and numerous hanging. Analysts from “No Bets Barred” underline the unpredictability and significant payoff of this major event.
product sales & Broadcast Notes
The combat will air on ESPN+ spend-for each-check out at ten p.m. ET, with prelims beginning at 6 p.m. on ESPN platforms.
A new Paramount broadcast offer promises wider visibility for UFC’s most significant party from the summertime.