Middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis is set to defend his title for the third time against the undefeated Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 319. The highly anticipated event is scheduled for August 16th at the United Center in Chicago, USA.
UFC CEO Dana White confirmed the bout during a live announcement on Instagram.
Du Plessis claimed the 185-pound belt by defeating Sean Strickland in January 2024 and has since successfully defended it twice, firmly establishing himself as the division`s top fighter. His previous title defenses include finishing former champion Israel Adesanya last August, and winning by decision against Strickland in their rematch in February.
Now, he is slated to face Chimaev, who will finally receive his long-awaited UFC title shot. Known as “Borz”, Khamzat has expressed his championship aspirations since his UFC debut in July 2020, though his path to the top has been slowed by injuries and other health issues. Chimaev solidified his status as the number one contender by finishing Robert Whittaker in the first round last October.
Tristan Blackwood