UFC Middleweight Champion Dricus du Plessis is officially set to defend his title against the highly anticipated undefeated contender Khamzat Chimaev.
UFC CEO Dana White announced the matchup via Instagram Live, confirming it will serve as the main event for UFC 319. The event is scheduled for August 16th and will take place at the United Center in Chicago, marking the promotion`s first visit to the city since 2019.
Du Plessis captured the middleweight crown in 2024 with a split decision win over Sean Strickland at UFC 297. He followed this by successfully defending the belt against Israel Adesanya via submission at UFC 305 and securing a unanimous decision victory in a rematch with Strickland at UFC 312 earlier this year.
Khamzat Chimaev, an unbeaten fighter who rose to prominence in 2020, has faced some issues with consistent activity but has been dominant when competing. He boasts eight victories inside the octagon, six by stoppage. His recent first-round submission win over former champion Robert Whittaker at UFC 308, recognized as the 2024 Submission of the Year, solidified his claim as the top contender for the middleweight title.
