Khamzat Chimaev is the new UFC middleweight champion after a commanding win over Dricus du Plessis in the main event of UFC 319 at the United Center in Chicago on Saturday night. The unbeaten Chechen fighter earned a unanimous decision victory (50-44, 50-44, 50-44), ending Du Plessis’ reign in dominant fashion.
Fight Breakdown
Round 1: Chimaev wasted no time, shooting for a takedown within seconds. He controlled Du Plessis in a crucifix position and landed short punches, leaving the champion stuck on his back.
Round 2: Du Plessis tried to keep the fight standing, but Chimaev powered through again, taking his back and maintaining control against the fence. The South African had no room to create offense.
Round 3: Chimaev continued to suffocate his opponent with relentless wrestling. He secured another crucifix and landed heavy elbows, nearly finishing the fight. It was his most dominant round of the night.
Round 4: Du Plessis briefly denied a takedown, but Chimaev adjusted and dragged him back down. Even after a referee stand-up, the challenger immediately shot again, keeping the pressure on.
Round 5: In the final round, Chimaev returned to his wrestling dominance until Du Plessis managed a late reversal, attempting a guillotine choke. The crowd rallied behind the defending champion, but the clock ran out, sealing Chimaev’s victory.
Post-Fight Reactions
Chimaev (15-0) apologized for not finishing the fight but praised his opponent:
“He has real heart. Dricus is a real lion,” Chimaev said inside the Octagon.
Du Plessis (23-3) acknowledged the challenge, admitting Chimaev’s timing and control were difficult to handle:
“It’s like he knew my next move before I made it. Respect to Khamzat. I’ll be back for my belt.”
What’s Next?
With the win, Chimaev remains undefeated and captures his first UFC championship. For Du Plessis, who entered the night unbeaten in the UFC, the loss ends his nine-fight win streak but sets up the potential for a high-stakes rematch in the near future.
đź“Ś Image Source: Getty Images / UFC Official Media
