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 inside a large-stakes middleweight title fight. Preview the leading card, rumors, odds, controversies, and what it means for the division.
UFC 319 Headliners & Card Context
UFC 319 will unfold on August 16, 2025, in the United Middle in Chicago, marking the advertising’s initial return to the city given that UFC 238. The middleweight title most important function pits undefeated challenger Khamzat Chimaev from winner Dricus Du Plessis. This struggle anchors a powerful struggle card built for effect.
Staredowns on the Formal UFC 319 push convention illustrated intense intensity, setting the tone for your showdown that lovers have prolonged expected.
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 lovers by distributing Robert Whittaker using a scarce initially-spherical deal with-crank—earning a efficiency bonus.
His UFC debut on U.S. soil due to the fact 2022 arrives laden with complications—visa difficulties tied to political controversy brought on lengthy delays—and required substantial-level diplomatic enable to take care of.
Chimaev's ambition transcends the current: he has vocalized a motivation to become A 3-division winner, eyeing welterweight and lightweight heavyweight crowns upcoming.
The winner: Dricus Du Plessis (DDP)
Du Plessis is getting into the cage undefeated while in the UFC, obtaining secured dominant wins in excess of top rated-tier opponents like Sean Strickland, Robert Whittaker, and Israel Adesanya. He stands to be a specific, resilient, and gritty champion — plus a moreover-funds pick in early betting.
Notably, Israel Adesanya—nevertheless at first crucial—voiced regard for DDP’s grit, suggesting “he finds a means” to acquire under pressure.
Undercard Shuffles & included Drama
UFC 319’s undercard suffered disruptions:
The lightweight click here King environmentally friendly vs. Diego Ferreira bout was canceled as a consequence of environmentally friendly’s injury.
A TUF 33 welterweight closing also collapsed several hours ahead of the event.
In response, a last-moment middleweight fight featuring Baisangur Susurkaev vs. Eric Nolan was extra.
Despite the shakeups, the co-principal celebration continues to be stacked, with Bellator veteran Aaron Pico generating his UFC debut from Lerone Murphy. Other standout clashes contain Michael “Venom” site vs. Jared Cannonier, and Geoff Neal vs. Carlos Prates.
Odds & Predictions
Betting strains seriously favor Chimaev (approx. –210), whilst Du Plessis is +one hundred seventy.
DraftKings props lean toward KO/TKO or Decision outcomes.
supporters on Tapology are virtually split, having a slight edge to Chimaev (fifty three% vs. 47%).
Strategic Match-Up & supporter Examination
Chimaev brings explosive strain, measurement, and elite grappling; he’s the aggressive danger that has intimidated elites prior to. DDP counters with championship composure, tenacity, and varied putting. Analysts from “No Bets Barred” underline the unpredictability and substantial payoff of this most important occasion.
revenue & Broadcast Notes
The struggle will air on ESPN+ pay back-per-look at at ten p.m. ET, with prelims starting at six p.m. on ESPN platforms.
a fresh Paramount broadcast offer promises wider visibility for UFC’s greatest event on the summer time.