The moment fight fans have been waiting for is almost here. On August 16th, 2025, UFC 319 will feature a middleweight showdown between the reigning champion Dricus Du Plessis and the undefeated wrecking machine Khamzat Chimaev. This isn’t just a fight. It’s a super fight. A collision of styles, momentum, personalities, and continents. Everyone in the game—from the gyms to the barbershops—is talking about this one.
Chimaev, “The Wolf,” has dominated nearly every man to step into the cage with him. Originally tearing through the welterweight division, he made names like Kevin Holland, Li Jingliang, and even the tough Gilbert Burns look like amateurs. In his middleweight debut, he shocked the world by breaking Robert Whittaker’s jaw and then invited Kamaru Usman, one of the most respected welterweights of all time, into a punishing and brutal reintroduction to 185 lbs.
Say what you will about Chimaev’s absences—visa issues, personal setbacks, and health problems—but when he shows up, he shows out. Undefeated and now 13-0, Chimaev hasn’t just won fights; he’s finished nearly all of them.
But don’t think for a second that Dricus “Stillknocks” Du Plessis is some paper champ. Not only is he the current UFC middleweight king, but he’s also 22-2, and he’s beaten everyone they’ve put in front of him. He stopped Darren Till, dominated Derek Brunson, outpaced Robert Whittaker, and outclassed Sean Strickland to win the belt. He’s big, physical, powerful, and can fight even when exhausted. That’s been his MO: survive the chaos, then deliver it back tenfold.
The fight game isn’t just about punches and kicks. It’s also about moments. DDP has had his fair share. Remember when he and Israel Adesanya nearly fought in the cage after a win, arguing about who the true African champion was? Or when the internet had a field day with training footage of him planting a celebratory kiss on his teammate’s lips? Say what you want—DDP is unapologetically himself and South Africa’s proudest warrior. Some even call him “Captain South Africa.”
The Fight Itself – Style vs. Will
What makes this fight special is how unpredictable it really is.
Chimaev is a fast starter. In multiple fights, he’s ended things within seconds. But against someone like DDP, he might approach the first round more cautiously. Du Plessis is not only physically the biggest man Chimaev has ever faced, but he’s also not afraid to mix it up on the feet or the ground. He’s one of the few middleweights with the stamina to brawl deep into the championship rounds.
And make no mistake, DDP doesn’t care if he’s tired. In fact, he often looks exhausted halfway through the second—but he keeps fighting. Hard. He’s made his career out of fighting tired, and he lives in that world. Where others fade, he thrives.
Chimaev may have superior wrestling, but DDP won’t shy away from the ground. He’s submitted experienced grapplers before and welcomes the challenge. If this fight goes to the mat, it might be a wild scramble-fest rather than a dominant mauling.
Sensei Will’s Breakdown:
Round 1: Chimaev plays it smart—no blitz, just pressure. DDP feels him out, lands a few kicks, and tries to time the entries. No real danger yet, but the tension is thick.
Round 2: Both men begin to open up. A few takedowns get stuffed. DDP’s jab starts landing. Chimaev starts to look more urgent.
Round 3: This could be the turning point. If Chimaev’s pace dips or he gets into a desperate shot, DDP might sprawl, take his back, or lock something up. Call it a gut feeling—but I see a third-round submission by DDP.
Now don’t get it twisted. Chimaev has the tools to win too. If he can chop the legs early, mix in feints, and take Du Plessis off rhythm, he could dominate the exchanges. Add in a scramble or two to wear him down, and this fight may turn into a classic five-round war.
But if I had to pick—and this is risky—I’m leaning DDP. He’s been more active, more tested at 185, and has shown he can go the full five rounds. His composure, toughness, and underrated grappling may be the perfect mix to hand “The Wolf” his first loss.
Final Thoughts:
This isn’t just another pay-per-view. It’s a global moment. South Africa vs. Chechnya. Grit vs. Pressure. Calm vs. Chaos.
UFC 319: Du Plessis vs. Chimaev goes down Saturday, August 16, 2025, and the MMA world will be watching. Don't miss it.
Let us know what you think—DM us on social, hit us with your predictions, and we’ll shout some of y’all out!