Khamzat Chimaev Dominates UFC 319 to Capture Middleweight Title in Unanimous Decision Over Du Plessis

CHICAGO — UFC 319 will be remembered as the night Khamzat Chimaev made history, asserting his dominance in the Octagon and capturing the UFC middleweight championship in a one-sided affair against Dricus Du Plessis. The event, held at a sold-out United Center, marked the UFC’s long-awaited return to Chicago and became the highest-grossing show ever at the venue.

Chimaev, now 15-0 in his professional career, wasted no time showcasing his wrestling prowess. Just seconds into the fight, he executed a clean takedown, keeping Du Plessis on his back for the majority of the first round. The undefeated Chechen-born fighter maintained relentless pressure throughout all five rounds, utilizing superior ground control and grappling to neutralize the South African’s striking capabilities.

How Did Khamzat Chimaev Win the UFC 319 Title?

Khamzat Chimaev’s win at UFC 319 was a textbook display of grappling supremacy. From the opening bell, he executed a takedown and maintained top control for most of the round. In rounds two through four, Chimaev delivered multiple takedowns, smothering Du Plessis with dominant positioning and constant transitions.

In the third round, Chimaev’s ground-and-pound intensified. He rained down strikes while maintaining a crucifix position—a tactic that UFC President Dana White later described as “no fun for anybody.” White emphasized, “Nobody wants to be in a crucifix getting punched in the head like that.”

Although Du Plessis showed heart in the fifth round, scoring a late takedown and attempting a guillotine choke, the effort was too little, too late. All three judges scored the bout 50–44 in favor of Chimaev, a unanimous decision that underscored his total control.

Why Chimaev’s Victory Matters in UFC History

This win positions Chimaev not only as a new champion but as a dominant force in the middleweight division. UFC 319 proved that Chimaev’s wrestling-heavy style can shut down even elite opponents like Du Plessis, who entered the bout with a 23-2 record and a reputation for toughness.

Chimaev was respectful in victory, praising Du Plessis post-fight: “That guy is tough to finish. Respect that guy. He was the only champion to say, ‘I’m in.’ This guy has a big heart.”

Du Plessis, acknowledging defeat, said, “He beat me fair and square tonight; he was the better man. I’ll be back.”

This fight adds a new chapter to UFC history, potentially reshaping the title picture and opening the door for fresh matchups in the 185-pound division.

Main Card Highlights from UFC 319

In addition to Chimaev’s championship performance, UFC 319 delivered several memorable moments:

• Carlos Prates secured the ninth spinning-elbow knockout in UFC history, finishing Geoff Neal in the first round.

• Lerone Murphy, stepping in on just three weeks’ notice, scored a stunning spinning-elbow KO against Aaron Pico in his featherweight debut.

• Michael Page continued his rise with a unanimous decision win over Jared Cannonier, including a knockdown and dominant second-round striking.

These fights added extra sizzle to an already stacked card, showcasing rising stars and title contenders.

What’s Next for Khamzat Chimaev?

With the belt now around his waist, speculation is already swirling about Chimaev’s next opponent. Potential contenders include Israel Adesanya, Sean Strickland, or a rematch with Du Plessis. Given Chimaev’s unbeaten streak and fan appeal, UFC leadership will likely fast-track a marquee title defense for early 2026.

For fans and analysts alike, UFC 319 was not just another pay-per-view—it was a declaration of a new era in the middleweight division, headlined by Khamzat Chimaev’s relentless pursuit of greatness.

For your information:

What was the result of UFC 319’s main event?
Khamzat Chimaev defeated Dricus Du Plessis by unanimous decision (50-44 on all scorecards) to become the new UFC middleweight champion.

Where was UFC 319 held?
UFC 319 took place at the United Center in Chicago, marking the UFC’s return to the city after six years.

Who had the most spectacular knockout at UFC 319?
Carlos Prates and Lerone Murphy both delivered spinning-elbow knockouts, with Murphy’s win coming in his featherweight debut.

How did Dricus Du Plessis react to the loss?
Du Plessis accepted the outcome, stating, “He was the better man tonight. I’ll be back.”

What did Dana White say about the fight?
Dana White emphasized Chimaev’s dominance, saying, “Nobody wants to be in a crucifix getting punched in the head like that.”

Who else impressed at UFC 319?
Michael Page impressed with a strong performance over Jared Cannonier, securing a knockdown and a dominant second round.

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