Khamzat Chimaev is the new UFC Middleweight Champion after a dominant performance at UFC 319, where he overwhelmed former champion Dricus du Plessis and earned a unanimous decision at the United Center in Chicago.
The victory marked a major milestone for Chimaev, who dictated the pace for five rounds and showcased a level of cardio that many had doubted. His relentless pressure and near-flawless control wore Du Plessis down, preventing any real comeback and sealing the belt in emphatic fashion.
In a notable pivot, former champion Israel Adesanya offered rare praise for Chimaev’s evolution. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Adesanya admitted he underestimated the extent of the improvement in Chimaev’s conditioning. “Not what I expected, but I’m glad Khamzat fixed his cardio, or improved his cardio to the point where he can go five rounds and just rag doll people,” Adesanya said. He added that Chimaev managed to smother Du Plessis throughout, denying any chance for the challenger to find a rhythm. “Khamzat, new middleweight champion, and yeah, the division is in good hands.”
With the belt now in his possession, Chimaev has positioned himself at the center of a crowded and increasingly dynamic division. His ability to maintain a high pace over five rounds changes the way opponents must approach him, blending overwhelming aggression with sustained stamina. The UFC has signaled interest in a quick turnaround for Chimaev, with chatter of a return at UFC 321 in Abu Dhabi, as the middleweight lineup continues to generate fresh, compelling matchups.
What this means for the division is a shift toward durability and relentless pace as defining traits for its top contenders. The landscape is stocked with fighters who can test Chimaev’s cardio and grappling, setting up exciting potential rematches and new rivalries in the wake of this title win.
Additional note: Chimaev’s victory adds a remarkable chapter to his career, underscoring how improvements in conditioning can redefine the arc of a fighter’s ascent in a stacked division. Fans can look forward to a thrilling title reign as the next generation of middleweight showdowns takes shape.
Summary: Chimaev’s championship win at UFC 319 signals a new era for the middleweight division, highlighted by his upgraded cardio, relentless pressure, and the immediate buzz around his future defenses. The response from Adesanya underscores the sense that the belt is in capable hands, with a busy, high-stakes schedule likely on the horizon. A positive, competitive outlook now defines the division as Chimaev begins his title tenure.