The UFC middleweight division is set for a blockbuster clash as reigning champion Dricus “Stillknocks” du Plessis defends his title against undefeated challenger Khamzat “Borz” Chimaev at UFC 319 on Saturday, 16 August, at the United Center in Chicago.
The headline bout will showcase a clash of fighting styles, with Du Plessis bringing his trademark explosive striking and relentless pressure, while Chimaev offers elite-level wrestling and submission skills.
Highly anticipated
Du Plessis, 31, the first South African UFC champion, comes into the bout following a dominant decision win over Sean Strickland in their highly anticipated rematch earlier this year.
With 19 stoppage victories in his professional career, the Pretoria-born fighter is known for his aggression, conditioning, and ability to thrive in chaotic exchanges.
Chimaev, 31, representing Chechnya and Sweden, secured his title shot with a first-round submission victory over former champion Robert Whittaker, silencing critics who questioned his activity and commitment to the middleweight division.
Despite his undefeated record, he has faced scrutiny over his cardio in extended bouts – particularly in tough fights against Gilbert Burns and Kamaru Usman.
TALE OF THE TAPE
| Dricus du Plessis | Khamzat Chimaev | |
| South Africa | FROM | Russia / UAE |
| 23-2 | RECORD | 14-0 |
| 31 | AGE | 31 |
| 6-foot-1 / 185.4cm | HEIGHT | 6-foot-2 / 187.9cm |
| 76 inches / 193cm | REACH | 75 inches / 190.5cm |
| 9 | TKO/KO | 6 |
| 11 | SUBMISSIONS | 6 |
| 59% | TAKEDOWN DEFENCE | 100% |
| 6.12 | STRIKES LANDED PER MIN | 5.36 |
| 49% | STRIKING ACCURACY | 59% |
| 50% | TAKEDOWN ACCURACY | 47% |
| 2/1 | ODDS | 19/50 |
What time is UFC 319 Du Plessis vs Chimaev?
The UFC 319 Du Plessis vs Chimaev card is scheduled to start with the early preliminaries at midnight SA time.
The main prelims start at 02:00 (SA time) on Sunday, 17 August.
The UFC 319 main card will begin coverage at 04:00 (SA time).
Main event cage walks are estimated to take place at 06:00 (SA time), but could be later depending on other fights.
Early preliminary card is as follows:
- Lightweight: Chase Hooper vs Alexander Hernandez
- Lightweight: Edson Barboza vs Drakkar Klose
- Middleweight: Bryan Battle vs Nursulton Ruziboev
- Flyweight: Karine Silva vs Dione Barbosa
- Welterweight: Rodrigo Sezinando vs Daniil Donchenko
- Flyweight: Alibi Idiris vs Joseph Morales
Main preliminary card is as follows:
- Lightweight: King Green vs Diego Ferreira
- Middleweight: Gerald Meerschaert vs Michał Oleksiejczuk
- Strawweight: Jessica Andrade vs Loopy Godinez
- Lightweight: Chase Hooper vs Alexander Hernandez
UFC 319 main card is as follows:
- Middleweight Title Fight: Dricus du Plessis (c) vs Khamzat Chimaev
- Featherweight: Lerone Murphy vs Aaron Pico
- Welterweight: Geoff Neal vs Carlos Prates
- Middleweight: Jared Cannonier vs Michael “Venom” Page
- Flyweight: Tim Elliott vs Kai Asakura
According to leading South African bookmakers Betway, Chimaev is a 19/50 favourite to dethrone Du Plessis, with the South African star on offer at 2/1.
Regardless of outcome, UFC 319 promises fireworks – and could be remembered as one of the most pivotal nights in MMA history.
Prediction
Khamzat Chimaev to win
How do you see the fight ending?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
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