UFC 319: Chimaev vs. Du Plessis Middleweight Title Clash
Imagine this: the lights dim, the crowd roars, and two of the baddest middleweights in the game step into the octagon. UFC 319, happening tonight, August 16, 2025, at the United Center in Chicago, is about to deliver a fight night that’ll have fans screaming. The main event? A middleweight title clash between the unbeaten wrecking machine Khamzat Chimaev and the gritty, never-say-die champion Dricus Du Plessis. This isn’t just a fight—it’s a war for the ages, backed by a card full of bangers. Let’s break down why UFC 319 is the event you can’t miss, from the main event to the undercard, and answer every question you’ve got about how to catch the action.
UFC 319: What’s at Stake?
Tonight’s the big one! UFC 319 kicks off at 8:00 PM ET with the prelims, and the main card, including the title fight, hits at 10:00 PM ET, all going down at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. You can watch it live on pay-per-view through ESPN+ or UFC Fight Pass, or check your local sports bar or network for the broadcast. For fans across the globe, it’s available via UFC Fight Pass or regional channels, so no one’s missing out. The weigh-ins already happened yesterday, August 15, at 11:00 AM ET, and both fighters made weight, setting the stage for a monster showdown.
At the heart of it all is Khamzat Chimaev, the 14-0 phenom who’s been running through everyone, chasing his first UFC middleweight title. Across the cage stands Dricus Du Plessis, the champ with a 23-2 record, fresh off defending his belt against killers like Robert Whittaker. Betting odds have Chimaev as the favorite at -220, but don’t sleep on Du Plessis at +180—his heart and hustle make him a real threat. If you’re looking to bet, platforms like DraftKings or FanDuel have all the odds, but play it smart and only wager what you’re cool with. This fight’s not just about gold; it’s about who’s the king of the middleweight jungle.
UFC 319 Bio and Event Details: Chimaev vs. Du Plessis Middleweight Title Clash
UFC 319 is lighting up Chicago tonight, August 16, 2025, with a middleweight title fight that’s got fans buzzing: Khamzat Chimaev, the undefeated beast, against Dricus Du Plessis, the relentless champion. Below is a bio table capturing the fighters’ profiles, the event’s venue, timetable, and key details to get you hyped for this epic showdown at the United Center.
| Detail | Khamzat Chimaev | Dricus Du Plessis | Event Info |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nickname | Borz | Stillknocks | – |
| Height | 6’2″ (188 cm) | 6’1″ (185 cm) | – |
| Reach | 75 inches (191 cm) | 76 inches (193 cm) | – |
| Weight | 185 lbs | 185 lbs | Middleweight (185 lbs) |
| Fighting Style | Aggressive wrestler with knockout power | Pressure striker and grappler with relentless pace | – |
| Notable Wins | Robert Whittaker, Kamaru Usman | Israel Adesanya, Robert Whittaker | – |
| UFC Debut | 2020 | 2020 | – |
| Current Streak | 14 wins | 11 wins | – |
| Venue | – | – | United Center, Chicago, IL |
| Date | – | – | August 16, 2025 |
| Early Prelims Start | – | – | 6:00 PM ET (UFC Fight Pass) |
| Prelims Start | – | – | 8:00 PM ET (ESPN, ESPN+) |
| Main Card Start | – | – | 10:00 PM ET (ESPN+ PPV) |
| Main Event Approx. Time | – | – | ~11:30 PM ET |
| How to Watch | – | – | ESPN+ PPV, UFC Fight Pass, local sports networks; international via UFC Fight Pass or regional broadcasters |
| Betting Odds | -220 (Favorite) | +180 (Underdog) | DraftKings, FanDuel (bet responsibly) |
| Weigh-In | – | – | August 15, 2025, 11:00 AM ET (Both made weight) |
| Co-Main Event | – | – | Lerone Murphy vs. Aaron Pico (Featherweight) |
This table sums up the fighters’ bio essentials and the event’s logistics. Chimaev’s a grappling monster who’s never lost, while Du Plessis brings championship grit and stamina. The United Center’s gonna be electric tonight, with prelims at 8:00 PM ET and the main card at 10:00 PM ET. You can stream it live on ESPN+ or UFC Fight Pass, or catch it at a local spot. Betting? Check DraftKings or FanDuel, but keep it chill. The co-main event, Murphy vs. Pico, is a featherweight banger to watch out for.
Fight Breakdown: Khamzat Chimaev vs. Dricus Du Plessis
Khamzat Chimaev
- Record: 14-0
- Fighting Style: This guy’s a beast—think relentless wrestling mixed with sledgehammer punches. He storms out the gate, dragging opponents to the mat or knocking them out cold.
- Physical Stats: 6’2″ tall, 75-inch reach, 185 lbs, built like a middleweight tank.
- Notable Wins: Smashed Robert Whittaker and outclassed Kamaru Usman, proving he’s ready for the big stage.
- Strengths: Explosive power and a pace that breaks people.
- Weakness: If he goes too hard too fast, he might hit a wall in the later rounds.
Dricus Du Plessis
- Record: 23-2
- Fighting Style: Du Plessis is a pressure cooker—always in your face, throwing heavy hands and slick grappling, with cardio that just won’t quit.
- Physical Stats: 6’1″ tall, 76-inch reach, 185 lbs, compact and durable.
- Notable Wins: Took down Israel Adesanya and Robert Whittaker, showing he thrives in the spotlight.
- Strengths: Iron chin, endless stamina, and a knack for flipping fights in his favor.
- Weakness: He’s gotta weather Chimaev’s early storm and land counters to stay alive.
This is a fight where styles collide. Chimaev wants to bulldoze with takedowns and ground-and-pound, but Du Plessis’ relentless pressure and clinch game could drag this into deep waters. It’s anyone’s fight.
Key Comparisons Between Khamzat Chimaev and Dricus Du Plessis
Here’s how these two stack up side by side:
| Feature | Khamzat Chimaev | Dricus Du Plessis |
|---|---|---|
| Record | 14–0–0 | 23–2–0 |
| Fighting Style | Aggressive wrestler with knockout power | Pressure striker and grappler with relentless pace |
| Height | 6’2″ (188 cm) | 6’1″ (185 cm) |
| Reach | 75 inches (191 cm) | 76 inches (193 cm) |
| Notable Wins | Robert Whittaker, Kamaru Usman | Israel Adesanya, Robert Whittaker |
| UFC Debut | 2020 | 2020 |
| Notable Strikes | Knockouts and dominant takedowns | Heavy strikes with strong clinch control |
| Current Streak | 14 wins (Undefeated) | 11 wins (Champion) |
| Strength | Explosive power, relentless pressure | Calder cardio, adaptability in exchanges |
| Weakness | Early aggression could lead to fatigue | Needs to avoid early strikes, focus on countering |
UFC 319: Fight Card and Other Contenders
The main event’s the star, but UFC 319’s whole card is a fight fan’s dream. From early prelims to the co-main event, there’s action in every corner. Here’s the full lineup for tonight, all at the United Center, with weight classes and approximate start times:
| Card Section | Fight Matchup | Weight Class | Approximate Start Time (ET) | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Main Card | Dricus Du Plessis vs. Khamzat Chimaev | Middleweight (Title) | 10:00 PM | United Center, Chicago, IL |
| Main Card | Lerone Murphy vs. Aaron Pico | Featherweight | ~10:30 PM | United Center, Chicago, IL |
| Main Card | Geoff Neal vs. Carlos Prates | Welterweight | ~11:00 PM | United Center, Chicago, IL |
| Main Card | Jared Cannonier vs. Michael Page | Middleweight | ~11:30 PM | United Center, Chicago, IL |
| Main Card | Tim Elliott vs. Kai Asakura | Flyweight | ~12:00 AM | United Center, Chicago, IL |
| Prelims | Bobby Green vs. Diego Ferreira | Lightweight | 8:00 PM | United Center, Chicago, IL |
| Prelims | Gerald Meerschaert vs. Michal Oleksiejczuk | Middleweight | ~8:30 PM | United Center, Chicago, IL |
| Prelims | Jéssica Andrade vs. Loopy Godinez | Women’s Strawweight | ~9:00 PM | United Center, Chicago, IL |
| Prelims | Chase Hooper vs. Alexander Hernandez | Lightweight | ~9:30 PM | United Center, Chicago, IL |
| Early Prelims | Edson Barboza vs. Drakkar Klose | Lightweight | 6:00 PM | United Center, Chicago, IL |
| Early Prelims | Bryan Battle vs. Nursulton Ruziboev | Middleweight | ~6:30 PM | United Center, Chicago, IL |
| Early Prelims | Karine Silva vs. Dione Barbosa | Women’s Flyweight | ~7:00 PM | United Center, Chicago, IL |
| Early Prelims | Alibi Idiris vs. Joseph Morales | Flyweight (TUF Final) | ~7:30 PM | United Center, Chicago, IL |
The co-main event, Lerone Murphy vs. Aaron Pico, is a featherweight clash that could be a show-stealer. Fights like Jared Cannonier vs. Michael Page and Tim Elliott vs. Kai Asakura are guaranteed to keep you glued to the screen.
Fan Engagement and How to Watch
Want to feel the pulse of UFC 319? You can stream it live on ESPN+ or UFC Fight Pass, with real-time stats and updates to keep you in the moment. If you’re not in the US, check UFC Fight Pass or your local sports network for international viewing options. Social media’s already blowing up with fans hyping the fights, so jump in for live reactions. Betting? DraftKings and FanDuel have odds for every matchup—just keep it fun and don’t go overboard.
Predictions and What to Expect From UFC 319
This main event’s a toss-up. Chimaev’s got that savage energy, likely smothering Du Plessis with takedowns early, aiming for a quick finish. But Du Plessis is a grinder—his cardio and striking could pull him through if he survives the first round. Expect a high-octane brawl, maybe a knockout or a late submission, depending on who imposes their game. The rest of the card’s stacked too, with veterans and rising stars bringing chaos from start to finish.
FAQ: Your UFC 319 Questions Answered
When does UFC 319 start?
It’s happening tonight, August 16, 2025. Prelims start at 8:00 PM ET, and the main card, with the title fight, begins at 10:00 PM ET. Get ready!
Where can I watch UFC 319?
You can watch live on pay-per-view via ESPN+ or UFC Fight Pass. Local sports bars or networks might carry it too, and international viewers have access through UFC Fight Pass or regional channels.
Who is fighting in the UFC 319 main event?
Dricus Du Plessis defends his middleweight title against Khamzat Chimaev. It’s champ vs. challenger, and it’s gonna be wild.
What are the betting odds for UFC 319?
Chimaev’s the favorite at -220, while Du Plessis is at +180. Those numbers could move as fight night rolls on.
What’s the full UFC 319 fight card?
Check the table above for the full 13-fight card, from early prelims to the main event, all at the United Center in Chicago.
How can I bet on UFC 319?
Places like DraftKings or FanDuel have you covered for betting. Just make sure to bet responsibly and only what you can afford.
What time is the UFC 319 weigh-in?
Weigh-ins went down yesterday, August 15, 2025, at 11:00 AM ET. Both main event fighters hit the 185-pound mark, so it’s all systems go.
Is UFC 319 available for international viewing?
Yep, it’s global! Watch through UFC Fight Pass or your local sports network, depending on where you are.
What is the UFC 319 co-main event?
Lerone Murphy vs. Aaron Pico in a featherweight bout. It’s a high-stakes fight that could steal the show.
Will there be a live stream for UFC 319?
For sure! Stream it live on ESPN+, UFC Fight Pass, or other authorized platforms, complete with real-time stats and updates.
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