Dricus du Plessis is set to defend his UFC middleweight title against top contender Khamzat Chimaev in his next bout.
UFC boss Dana White confirmed the blockbuster bout via Instagram Live on Tuesday. The middleweight title fight will headline UFC 319, taking place on 16 August at the United Center in Chicago. This marks the UFC’s first return to Chicago since 2019.
Du Plessis, who hails from Pretoria, has been unbeaten in the UFC since his debut in 2020. He made history in 2024 by becoming the first South African UFC champion, edging out Sean Strickland in a tight split decision at UFC 297.
He went on to silence critics by submitting Israel Adesanya in the fourth round at UFC 305 – a moment many fans still talk about. Earlier this year, he reaffirmed his dominance with a convincing points win over Strickland in their rematch at UFC 312.
Chimaev, an undefeated juggernaut and fan favourite since bursting onto the scene in 2020, has long been tipped for UFC gold. While injuries and other setbacks have limited his appearances, when he does step into the octagon, he delivers fireworks.
With eight UFC wins – six by stoppage – Chimaev most recently submitted former champ Robert Whittaker in the first round at UFC 308, earning 2024’s Submission of the Year and punching his ticket to a title shot.
All eyes will be on UFC 319 as du Plessis prepares for what could be the toughest test of his career.
Photo: Paul Kane/Getty Images
