Chicago to Host UFC 319 Featuring Du Plessis vs. Chimaev

News Summary

UFC 319 is set to take place in Chicago, showcasing a thrilling middleweight championship match between defending champion Dricus Du Plessis and undefeated contender Khamzat Chimaev. With an impressive combined record, both fighters are anticipated to deliver an electrifying main event for MMA fans. The event will also feature several exciting matchups, as UFC returns to Chicago after a hiatus since 2019, increasing excitement among local spectators.

Chicago Set to Host UFC 319 with Du Plessis vs. Chimaev Main Event

Chicago, Illinois will host UFC 319 on August 16, featuring a highly anticipated middleweight championship match between Dricus Du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev. Du Plessis will defend his title against the undefeated contender Chimaev, promising an electrifying main event for fans.

Both fighters bring impressive records into the octagon, with a combined total of 17 appearances in the UFC and an unbeaten streak. Du Plessis, the defending champion, holds a professional record of 23 wins and 2 losses. He has established himself as a dominant force in the middleweight division, having won the title from Sean Strickland at UFC 297 and further solidifying his reign by successfully defending it against both Strickland and Israel Adesanya at UFC 305 and UFC 312, respectively.

On the other hand, Chimaev, who is currently ranked No. 3 in the middleweight division, possesses an overall record of 14 wins and no losses. His title shot comes after a significant victory, where he finished former champion Robert Whittaker at UFC 308, marking his capabilities as a fierce competitor.

Event Details and Main Card Lineup

The details surrounding UFC 319 remain dynamic, particularly with the co-main event currently labeled as “TBD.” However, the main card will also include exciting matchups, such as Michael “Venom” Page facing Jared Cannonier in a middleweight bout and welterweights Geoff Neal taking on Carlos Prates. Additionally, Tim Elliott will return to the octagon after a year and a half away due to injury, taking on Kai Asakura in a flyweight contest.

The preliminary card will highlight rising talents, featuring fighters like King Green and Jessica Andrade, promising a night filled with excitement and potential upsets.

Broadcast Information

UFC 319 will be available for streaming on ESPN+ pay-per-view, with prelims being broadcasted on ESPN and early prelims available on ESPN+ and UFC Fight Pass. The return of the UFC to Chicago marks a significant moment, as the promotion has not held an event in this city since 2019, heightening anticipation among local fight fans.

Context and Background

Since ascending to the champion status, Du Plessis has built a reputation for his striking power and tactical approach inside the octagon. His successful title defenses have only amplified his status as one of UFC’s elite fighters. Chimaev, on the other hand, has captured the attention of fans with his dominant performances, making him one of the most talked-about contenders in recent history.

The excitement surrounding UFC 319 is fueled by both fighters’ undefeated records and their positions among the top competitors in the middleweight division. As fans eagerly await further updates on the fight card and any potential announcements regarding the co-main event, the stage is set for an exhilarating night of mixed martial arts action in Chicago.

With less than a month to go, the buzz around UFC 319 and the showdown between Du Plessis and Chimaev continues to grow, promising to be one of the highlights of the UFC calendar.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Additional Resources

• MMA News
• Wikipedia: UFC 319
• Forbes
• Google Search: UFC 319
• Bloody Elbow
• Encyclopedia Britannica: UFC
• CBS Sports
• Google News: UFC 319