Chimaev vs DDP headlines UFC 319 in Chicago. Khamzat Chimaev battles defending champion Dricus Du Plessis in a high-stakes middleweight title fight. Preview the main 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 first return to the city since UFC 238. The middleweight title main event pits undefeated challenger Khamzat Chimaev against champion Dricus Du Plessis. This fight anchors a compelling fight card built for impact.
Staredowns at the official UFC 319 press conference illustrated fierce intensity, setting the tone for a showdown that fans have long anticipated.
Spotlight on Khamzat Chimaev — The Challenger’s Journey
Khamzat “Borz” Chimaev, undefeated at 14–0, is one of MMA’s most feared finishers. Notably, he electrified fans by submitting Robert Whittaker with a rare first-round face-crank—earning a performance bonus.
His UFC debut on U.S. soil since 2022 comes laden with complications—visa issues tied to political controversy caused long delays—and required high-level diplomatic help to resolve.
Chimaev’s ambition transcends the present: he has vocalized a desire to become a three-division champion, eyeing welterweight and light heavyweight crowns next.
ITS FIGHT WEEK! #UFC319 pic.twitter.com/Z8T2pvRNXC
— Dricus Du Plessis (@dricusduplessis) August 11, 2025
The Champion: Dricus Du Plessis (DDP)
Du Plessis is entering the cage undefeated in the UFC, having secured dominant wins over top-tier opponents like Sean Strickland, Robert Whittaker, and Israel Adesanya. He stands as a precise, resilient, and gritty champion — and a plus-money pick in early betting.
Notably, Israel Adesanya—though initially critical—voiced respect for DDP’s grit, suggesting “he finds a way” to win under pressure.
Undercard Shuffles & Added Drama
UFC 319’s undercard suffered disruptions:
- The lightweight King Green vs. Diego Ferreira bout was canceled due to Green’s injury.
- A TUF 33 welterweight final also collapsed hours before the event.
- In response, a last-minute middleweight fight featuring Baisangur Susurkaev vs. Eric Nolan was added.
Despite the shakeups, the co-main event remains stacked, with Bellator veteran Aaron Pico making his UFC debut against Lerone Murphy. Other standout clashes include 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 +170.
- DraftKings props lean toward KO/TKO or Decision outcomes.
- Fans on Tapology are nearly split, with a slight edge to Chimaev (53% vs. 47%).
Strategic Match-Up & Fan Analysis
Chimaev brings explosive pressure, size, and elite grappling; he’s the aggressive threat who has intimidated elites before. DDP counters with championship composure, tenacity, and diverse striking. Analysts from “No Bets Barred” underline the unpredictability and high payoff of this main event.
Sales & Broadcast Notes
The fight will air on ESPN+ pay-per-view at 10 p.m. ET, with prelims beginning at 6 p.m. on ESPN platforms.
A new Paramount broadcast deal promises wider visibility for UFC’s biggest event of the summer.