UFC 319: Chimaev Outshines Du Plessis to Claim Middleweight Title | MMA News

Khamzat Chimaev has become the undisputed UFC middleweight champion after a show of dominance against Dricus Du Plessis at the United Center in Chicago.
Described as a clash of the undefeated UFC middleweights, Du Plessis defended his title for the third time against Chimaev, the No. 3-ranked contender considered one of the most intimidating fighters in the UFC.
However, Chimaev showed control throughout the bout, making it one of the most one-sided title fights in UFC history; the judges unanimously scored it 50-44 in favor of Chimaev.
Post-fight, Chimaev expressed happiness and mentioned not having a specific game plan, instead working as he does in the gym. He acknowledged Du Plessis’s strength and resolve.
The victory extends Chimaev’s unbeaten streak in the UFC to 15, while Du Plessis suffered his first loss, dropping his overall MMA record to 23-3.
Chimaev, who joined the UFC in 2020 and has previously defeated former champions Usman and Whittaker, was hardly in danger against Du Plessis. Despite not finishing the fight, Chimaev controlled the action, landing 12 takedowns out of 17 attempts and dominating the fight for 84% of its duration.
Du Plessis had a brief moment in the final round when he executed a guillotine choke, but Chimaev escaped and maintained his control until the end of the fight.
Du Plessis credited Chimaev for his control and acknowledged being outmatched, showing respect and stating his intention to reclaim his belt in the future.