Chimaev vs Du Plessis headlines UFC 319

A veteran opponent weighs in as Chimaev prepares for his first middleweight title shot at UFC 319 in Chicago.

Chimaev aims for title as Meerschaert predicts Du Plessis at UFC 319

Khamzat Chimaev is set to challenge for the UFC middleweight title at UFC 319, headlining a Chicago event at the United Center. The undefeated fighter earned his first title shot after a dramatic 17 second knockout of Gerald Meerschaert, the veteran who now predicts a different outcome this time. The main event pairs Chimaev with Dricus du Plessis, a challenger who has risen through the ranks with an undefeated run and a style many find tricky.

Meerschaert, who faced Chimaev in his UFC debut, said in an interview that he thinks Du Plessis will win. He described Du Plessis’s movement and size as giving Chimaev problems early in the fight. The card also features other middleweight bouts and a strong undercard that helps set the stage for the headline bout to deliver on fight night.

The fight sets up a test for Chimaev's claim to a title and for du Plessis's growing reputation. The veteran's pick shows how quickly opinions shift in UFC circles when a rising star is on the cusp of a major bout. The matchup also highlights how size and reach advantages can complicate a fighter's path in a title bid.

If Chimaev wins, it would cement his status as a title threat; a loss would not end the story but would reveal how quickly a hype train can meet a calculated game plan. The event's market in Chicago underscores how big market cards can shape a star's trajectory, while the undercard provides context for whether momentum translates into a lasting impact in the division.

Highlights

Fans will watch to see whether hype can become real championship dominance.