Dricus du Plessis vs Khamzat Chimaev – UFC 319 Showdown: Odds, Predictions, and How to Watch in South Africa
Dricus du Plessis vs Khamzat Chimaev – UFC 319 Showdown
The world of MMA is buzzing ahead of UFC 319, where South Africa’s champion Dricus du Plessis faces off against the undefeated monster Khamzat Chimaev in Chicago. This highly anticipated middleweight clash promises fireworks, with the UFC title on the line and two of the most dangerous fighters in the division ready to collide.
If you’re looking for the latest updates, betting odds, fight predictions, and where to watch Du Plessis vs Chimaev in South Africa, this guide has everything you need.
Du Plessis vs Chimaev: Fight Overview
- Event: UFC 319
- Date: Saturday, 16 August 2025
- Venue: United Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Main Event: Dricus du Plessis (C) vs Khamzat Chimaev
- Division: UFC Middleweight Championship
- Broadcast: ESPN+, SuperSport (South Africa), UFC Fight Pass
This bout has all the ingredients of a classic: a champion with heart and resilience versus a challenger with unmatched aggression.
Who is Dricus du Plessis?
Dricus “Stillknocks” du Plessis has quickly become a South African sports icon, carrying the national flag proudly into the UFC octagon. Known for his durability, creative striking, and never-back-down attitude, Du Plessis has beaten the best on his way to becoming middleweight champion.
- Record: 22-2 (Most recent win: KO over Sean Strickland)
- Fighting Style: Kickboxing & submission grappling
- Strengths: High fight IQ, strong cardio, dangerous on the ground and standing
- Weaknesses: Sometimes starts slow, takes damage early before finding rhythm
Du Plessis is seen as the underdog in this matchup, but as history shows, he thrives under pressure.
Who is Khamzat Chimaev?
Khamzat “Borz” Chimaev is one of the most feared men in MMA today. His relentless wrestling, explosive striking, and killer instinct have made him a nightmare for anyone standing across the cage.
- Record: 13-0 (Undefeated)
- Fighting Style: Wrestling-heavy with knockout power
- Strengths: Relentless pace, elite grappling, fast finishes
- Weaknesses: Questions about cardio in later rounds, emotional in high-pressure moments
Chimaev has promised to “smash Du Plessis” and claim UFC gold, making this fight personal and intense.
Latest Drama at the UFC 319 Weigh-Ins
Tensions exploded at the ceremonial weigh-ins, where Dana White had to step in as Du Plessis and Chimaev nearly fought before fight night. Chimaev aggressively poked at Du Plessis’ stomach during the staredown, prompting a fiery response.
Chimaev shouted: “You’ve got two days to hold that belt… tomorrow you’re dead!”
Du Plessis calmly fired back: “I’ll put you to sleep.”
The drama has only fueled hype for what’s expected to be one of the biggest UFC fights of 2025.
Betting Odds and Predictions
Current odds (subject to change):
- Khamzat Chimaev: –245 (favorite)
- Dricus du Plessis: +194 (underdog)
Predictions
- If Chimaev dominates early with wrestling pressure, he could secure a first or second-round finish.
- If Du Plessis survives the storm, his cardio and durability could flip the fight in the championship rounds.
MMA analysts are split:
- Chimaev fans believe his pace is too much for Du Plessis.
- Du Plessis supporters argue his adaptability and grit make him the perfect spoiler.
How to Watch UFC 319 in South Africa
South African fans won’t want to miss this historic night. Here’s how:
- SuperSport (DSTV): The official broadcaster in South Africa.
- UFC Fight Pass: Stream online with a monthly subscription.
- ESPN (via DSTV Compact Plus & Premium): Will also carry the event.
Main card starts around 4 a.m. SAST (Sunday morning, 17 August 2025).
Set your alarms—Du Plessis is representing Mzansi on the world stage!
Fight Card for UFC 319 (Updated)
- Main Event: Dricus du Plessis (C) vs Khamzat Chimaev – Middleweight Championship
- Co-Main Event: Amanda Lemos vs Weili Zhang – Strawweight contenders
- Featured Bouts: Multiple changes due to injuries, but highlights include Baisangur Susurkaev vs Eric Nolan
Several undercard fights were canceled last minute, adding even more unpredictability to the night.
Why This Fight Matters
For South Africa, Du Plessis isn’t just fighting for himself—he’s carrying a nation’s pride. If he beats Chimaev, he cements himself as one of the greatest African UFC champions ever.
For Chimaev, this is his long-awaited chance at UFC gold. A win makes him a superstar on par with Khabib Nurmagomedov.
This isn’t just a fight. It’s a battle of legacy, pride, and dominance.
FAQs – Du Plessis vs Chimaev UFC 319
1. When is Du Plessis vs Chimaev taking place?
Saturday, 16 August 2025 (early Sunday morning in South Africa).
2. Where is UFC 319 happening? At the United Center in Chicago, USA.
3. What time will Du Plessis fight in South Africa?
Main event walkouts are expected around 6 a.m. SAST.
4. Who is the favorite to win?
Khamzat Chimaev is the betting favorite, but Du Plessis is seen as a dangerous underdog.
5. Where can I watch the fight in South Africa?
SuperSport, ESPN via DSTV, or UFC Fight Pass.
The clash between Dricus du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 319 has all the makings of an instant classic. Whether you’re backing the South African champion to shock the world again, or Chimaev to dominate as expected, one thing is certain—fight fans are in for a wild ride.
