Khamzat Chimaev’s meteoric rise now meets its sternest challenge as he headlines UFC 319 against middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis. Despite entering as the challenger, Chimaev is drawing favorite status from oddsmakers, a nod to his unbeaten run and reputation as a relentless finisher.
Former middleweight champion Chris Weidman praised Chimaev’s title chances while highlighting a key development in his preparation: a move to strength and conditioning coach Sam Calavita at The Garage. Weidman framed that shift as a direct response to the only consistent critique of Chimaev’s game—late-fight endurance—after high-tempo clashes with Gilbert Burns and Kamaru Usman. According to Weidman, that focus could deliver the most complete version of Chimaev the UFC has seen.
Weidman also believes the path to gold is clearest if Chimaev turns up the pressure early. He favors an aggressive start and a finish in the first two rounds over a drawn-out decision, citing du Plessis’ proven late-fight durability and pace. Chimaev has yet to compete beyond three rounds in the UFC, whereas du Plessis has repeatedly shown he can build momentum as fights wear on and remains undefeated inside the octagon as champion.
The stakes extend beyond the belt. Chimaev’s explosive wrestling, quick entries, and top control have overwhelmed most opponents. Du Plessis counters with awkward timing, powerful scrambles, and a grinding style that forces opponents to work in every phase. If Chimaev’s retooled conditioning allows him to manage his output and maintain his trademark pressure without fading, it could flip one of the matchup’s biggest questions into a strength.
What to watch:
– Early sequences: Chimaev’s best window may be the first 10 minutes, where his speed and grappling can dictate terms.
– Clinch and scrambles: Du Plessis thrives when fights get messy; clean transitions favor Chimaev, chaos favors the champion.
– Championship pace: Five rounds magnify cardio and composure. If it gets late, du Plessis typically does his best work.
Logical takeaway:
– The fight likely hinges on tempo control. If Chimaev’s conditioning holds and he can blend takedowns with measured striking pressure early, he has a strong chance to produce a finish. If du Plessis survives the initial surge and forces prolonged exchanges, the momentum could swing toward the champion down the stretch.
Positive outlook:
– Regardless of outcome, this matchup promises clarity in the division and a potential star-making performance. It’s elite talent versus championship resilience—a compelling recipe for fans and a boost for the middleweight landscape.
Summary:
– Chimaev challenges du Plessis for the middleweight title at UFC 319 as a slight betting favorite. Chris Weidman applauds Chimaev’s partnership with strength coach Sam Calavita to shore up cardio and sees an early finish as the challenger’s best route. Du Plessis’ unbeaten UFC run and proven late-fight pressure set the stage for a high-stakes clash of pace, power, and durability.