Dricus du Plessis vs Khamzat Chimaev – UFC 319 Chicago Showdown

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By Byron Lukas

South Africa’s UFC middleweight champion Dricus “Stillknocks” du Plessis is preparing for one of the most formidable challenges of his career. Next week, he steps back into the octagon to defend his title against undefeated Russian contender Khamzat Chimaev in the main event of UFC 319 in Chicago.

The Stage Is Set for UFC 319

The highly anticipated clash takes place at the United Center on Saturday, 16 August, with South African fans able to catch the action live on SuperSport Action and Maximo 1 from around 4 a.m. on Sunday morning. The exact timing will depend on the length of earlier fights.

This will be Du Plessis’ first fight since his unanimous decision victory over Sean Strickland at UFC 312 in Sydney this February. It also marks his sternest test since winning the title in January last year.

A Champion’s Journey

Since dethroning Strickland, the Pretoria-born fighter has defended his belt successfully against Israel Adesanya and Strickland in a rematch, cementing his place as one of the UFC’s most respected champions.

Du Plessis boasts a flawless UFC record of nine wins with no losses. His last professional defeat dates back to 2018, when he fell to Roberto Soldić in a KSW welterweight bout in London. His only other career loss came in 2014 against Garreth McLellan at EFC 33 in Johannesburg.

Respect for the Challenge, Confidence in His Skills

Speaking to FOX 32 Chicago, Du Plessis addressed Chimaev’s reputation as an elite wrestler:

“We are not fighting for the wrestling title; we are fighting for the UFC title, and that’s where I am the best. I am not the best wrestler or striker, but when you put all those things together, that is where I am the best in the world… 100%.”

Acknowledging the level of competition at the top, he added:

“I believe this is the best opponent I’ve faced to date, but so was the previous one. Every time you step in there, you’re going to face the next most dangerous guy, especially as the champion.”

What’s at Stake

For Chimaev, this is a shot at UFC gold and a chance to extend his undefeated record. For Du Plessis, it’s an opportunity to solidify his legacy as one of the most dominant champions in the sport.

By Sunday morning, South Africa will know if “Stillknocks” has once again proven that he’s the best middleweight in the world.