In a performance that left no doubts, Khamzat Chimaev dismantled reigning champion Dricus Du Plessis to become the new UFC middleweight champion at UFC 319, held at the United Center in Chicago on Saturday night.
The undefeated Russian powerhouse, now 15-0, put on a clinic in wrestling and ground control, racking up over 10 takedowns and smothering Du Plessis with relentless top pressure. Chimaev kept the fight mostly on the canvas, delivering a stream of knees, punches, and elbows, leaving Du Plessis with little room to breathe—let alone strike back.
While Chimaev controlled the majority of the bout, the fifth round provided the lone moment of drama. Du Plessis locked in a tight guillotine choke, drawing a gasp from the crowd, but Chimaev calmly escaped and resumed his dominance.
The judges were unanimous, scoring the fight 50-44 on all three cards, signaling a one-sided dismantling of the now-former champion.
With this victory, Khamzat Chimaev becomes the undisputed UFC middleweight champion, and likely one of the most feared figures in the division. His path to the title has been as brutal as it has been swift—and Saturday night only reinforced his reputation as a juggernaut.
Main Event Recap:
- Winner: Khamzat Chimaev (15-0)
- Method: Unanimous Decision (50-44 x3)
- Notable Stats: 10+ takedowns, near-constant top control
UFC President Dana White praised Chimaev post-fight, calling it “one of the most dominant title wins we’ve seen in a long time.“
