Get ready for an electrifying night of mixed martial arts! UFC 319, featuring the highly anticipated middleweight championship bout between Dricus du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev, promises explosive action. This comprehensive guide covers every essential detail, from crucial fight card changes and exciting new additions to deep dives into every main and preliminary card matchup. Discover expert predictions, critical event logistics, and what this event means for the future of the middleweight division.
UFC 319: A Championship Clash and Card Shake-Up
UFC 319 is set to ignite the United Center in Chicago, Illinois, this Saturday, August 16, 2025. Headlining the event is a championship showdown that many predict could be a “Fight of the Year” candidate: reigning middleweight king Dricus du Plessis defends his title against the undefeated force, Khamzat Chimaev. This event holds immense significance for the sport, poised to answer long-standing questions about both fighters’ legacies and the middleweight landscape.
Recent adjustments to the fight card have stirred excitement. While some previously scheduled bouts face rescheduling due to injuries, new and compelling matchups have been added. This ensures the card remains packed with top-tier talent and thrilling contests, reinforcing its reputation as one of the year’s deepest and most competitive fight nights.
Main Event Spotlight: Du Plessis vs. Chimaev – A “Proving Ground” Battle
The collision between Dricus du Plessis (23-2 MMA, 9-0 UFC) and Khamzat Chimaev (14-0 MMA, 8-0 UFC) is more than just a title fight; it’s a monumental test for both athletes. Du Plessis, ranked as a top pound-for-pound fighter, seeks his second title defense this year after dominant performances against elite competition. His journey to the top has been marked by relentless pressure and an unyielding spirit.
Champion’s Composure vs. Challenger’s Ambition
Dricus du Plessis maintains a calm, unbothered demeanor, even after recent face-offs with his challenger. His focus remains squarely on retaining his world championship. He emphasizes fighting his own fight, not Chimaev’s, aiming to solidify his status as an undisputed champion. This humble confidence defines his approach.
Khamzat Chimaev, the “unbeaten phenom,” enters his first title shot with an unblemished record. His explosive debut on Fight Island heralded his arrival as a future champion. Despite previous health and visa issues delaying his ascent, Chimaev silenced doubters with a dominant submission win over Robert Whittaker. Interestingly, Chimaev views this title fight as a “one-off” before pursuing more fights overseas, particularly in the UAE. He cites financial benefits and national representation as key drivers for this strategic shift, expressing a clear preference to fight in “his country, the best country in the world.”
The combined professional records of these two fighters — 37-2 overall, with a combined 17-0 in the UFC — underscore the magnitude of this bout. It’s arguably the biggest title fight in middleweight history.
Key Card Changes and New Talent Debuts
As is common in the unpredictable world of MMA, some initial matchups for UFC 319 have been impacted by injury. Several exciting bouts are now being rescheduled to a later date, ensuring fighter safety and competitive integrity.
However, the card gains fresh energy with the addition of a thrilling middleweight bout. UFC newcomers Baisangur Susurkaev and Eric Nolan will make their promotional debuts. Susurkaev, fresh off a highlight-reel first-round knockout on Dana White’s Contender Series, quickly secured his UFC contract. He faces Eric Nolan, an impressive prospect currently riding a four-fight winning streak, with his last three victories coming by knockout. This matchup promises a high-octane introduction for both fighters.
Co-Main Event: Murphy vs. Pico Showdown
The co-main event features a highly anticipated featherweight clash between the undefeated Lerone Murphy (16-0-1 MMA) and the acclaimed Aaron Pico (9-1 MMA). Murphy, often compared to Leon Edwards for his quiet but steady rise, puts his perfect record on the line. He has cemented his contender status with recent wins over tough opponents like Edson Barboza and Josh Emmett. A win over Pico would significantly boost his claim for a championship opportunity.
Aaron Pico makes his much-anticipated UFC debut after a successful career in Bellator MMA, where he was considered a “blue chip prospect.” His sole loss since 2019 was due to an injury. Despite a long layoff, Pico possesses proven knockout power and exceptional wrestling. This fight offers Pico an immediate chance to catapult himself into title contention. However, a loss could force him onto a much longer road back, especially given the high stakes of his debut against such a formidable, undefeated opponent.
Main Card Deep Dive: More High-Stakes Battles
Beyond the main and co-main events, UFC 319 boasts four additional main card bouts designed to deliver unforgettable moments.
Welterweight Warfare: Neal vs. Prates
Originally scheduled for UFC 314, the welterweight bout between Geoff Neal and Carlos Prates is finally set. Neal is a consistent Top 15 welterweight, known for his sharp striking and tenacity. He has pushed elite fighters to their limits, proving his durable skill set. His opponent, Carlos Prates, is a “somewhat volatile, ever-dangerous” striker who suffered his first loss in a dozen fights only recently. This matchup is expected to be a high-octane striking exchange, with both fighters capable of ending the fight in an instant.
Middleweight Mayhem: Cannonier vs. Page
This middleweight contest carries significant Top 10 implications. Jared Cannonier, a Top 10 mainstay since 2018, recently snapped a two-fight skid. He represents a tough measuring stick for any contender, having only lost to former and current champions in the division. Michael “MVP” Page, despite being 38, showcased his tricky style and range fighting prowess in his impressive middleweight debut. This fight pits Cannonier’s raw power against Page’s unique speed and variety, promising a tactical striking battle.
Flyweight Battle: Elliott vs. Asakura
Kicking off the main card is a compelling flyweight bout between two former title challengers, Tim Elliott and Kai Asakura. Elliott, a formidable veteran, continues to test rising talents in the division. Kai Asakura, known for his explosive power and RIZIN success, looks to make a stronger impression in his second UFC fight after a previous submission loss. This contest offers a chance for both fighters to reassert their relevance in the competitive flyweight division.
Preliminary Card Highlights
The robust preliminary card features nine additional bouts, each with unique storylines and high stakes.
Baisangur Susurkaev vs. Eric Nolan (Welterweight): A rapid return for Susurkaev, facing the streaking Nolan.
Gerald Meerschaert vs. Michal Oleksiejczuk (Middleweight): A surprising first-time booking between two middleweight mainstays known for their finishing abilities.
Jessica Andrade vs. Loopy Godinez (Strawweight): A pivotal “crossroads fight” for two established strawweight contenders seeking to regain momentum.
Chase Hooper vs. Alexander Hernandez (Lightweight): This lightweight clash pits Hooper’s five-fight win streak against Hernandez’s recent success at 155 pounds.
Edson Barboza vs. Drakkar Klose (Lightweight): A veteran clash described as a “sure-fire barnburner,” with Barboza returning to lightweight and both fighters aiming to rebound from recent losses.
Bryan Battle vs. Nursulton Ruziboev (Middleweight): Former TUF winner Battle returns to middleweight on an impressive unbeaten streak against the dangerous Ruziboev.
Karine Silva vs. Dione Barbosa (Flyweight): A rematch between Brazilian flyweights, with Silva looking to avenge a 2019 decision loss.
Joseph Morales vs. Alibi Idiris (Likely TUF Finale): A finale bout, with Morales seeking to improve his UFC record against the undefeated Idiris.
Middleweight Title Picture Beyond UFC 319
The outcome of the Du Plessis vs. Chimaev fight will significantly shape the future of the middleweight division. Contenders are already positioning themselves for a shot at the gold.
Reinier de Ridder, boasting an impressive 4-0 UFC record with three finishes, is strongly advocating for an immediate title opportunity. He strategically hopes for a Du Plessis victory, fearing a Chimaev win might lead to prolonged inactivity due to Chimaev’s history of layoffs. De Ridder believes a Du Plessis win could facilitate a quicker title shot for himself.
Adding further complexity to the contender landscape is the upcoming UFC Paris main event in September, featuring Nassourdine Imavov against Caio Borralho. Both fighters are on impressive win streaks, and their five-round clash could produce the next clear No. 1 contender, potentially “usurping” de Ridder’s current strong claim. The middleweight division is truly heating up with a deep pool of talent.
Expert Predictions & What to Expect
Leading MMA analysts are weighing in on UFC 319, offering varied predictions for the main events. For the Du Plessis vs. Chimaev middleweight title bout, experts are split, anticipating a very close contest. Some favor Du Plessis to retain his title, highlighting his impressive trajectory and pound-for-pound ranking. Others back Chimaev, often citing his perceived size advantage as a potential deciding factor.
The co-main event between Lerone Murphy and Aaron Pico also sees divided opinions. Murphy is considered the “clear favorite” due to his undefeated record. However, Pico’s renowned knockout power and potential for “ring rust” after a long layoff add intriguing variables. A “UFC legend” reportedly questioned Pico’s decision to take such a challenging debut fight, underscoring the high stakes involved.
For “Fight of the Night” honors, the lightweight clash between Edson Barboza and Drakkar Klose is a strong contender, promising a “sure-fire barnburner” given both fighters’ styles and motivation. Another pick for FOTN is the welterweight bout between Geoff Neal and Carlos Prates, expected to be a chaotic and action-packed exchange. “Performance of the Night” predictions include Kai Asakura, Michael “Venom” Page, and Carlos Prates, each known for their finishing capabilities.
Event Details and How to Watch
UFC 319: Du Plessis vs Chimaev takes place this Saturday, August 16, 2025, live from the United Center in Chicago, Illinois.
Prelims: Begin at 8 PM ET / 5 PM PT.
Main Card: Live on Pay-Per-View (PPV) at 10 PM ET / 7 PM PT.
Fans can also catch pre-fight events. A traditional pre-fight press conference will be held on Thursday at the Radius Theater in East Pilsen, starting at 6 PM ET / 3 PM PT. UFC CEO Dana White will emcee the event, which is open to the public and streamed live on the UFC’s YouTube channel. On Friday, the ceremonial weigh-ins will also take place at the Radius Theater, hosted by veteran UFC color commentator Joe Rogan, marking his return to mic duties.
Notably, UFC 319 is identified as one of the final Pay-Per-View events for the UFC. The promotion plans to discontinue the PPV format upon its transition to Paramount+ next year, marking a significant shift in how fans will access major UFC events in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of UFC 319: Du Plessis vs. Chimaev for the Middleweight division?
UFC 319 features a highly anticipated middleweight championship fight that will significantly shape the division’s future. Champion Dricus du Plessis defends his title against the undefeated Khamzat Chimaev in a bout many consider a potential “Fight of the Year.” The outcome will determine the undisputed king and could influence future title shots for top contenders like Reinier de Ridder, whose path to the championship may be impacted by who emerges victorious from this pivotal matchup.
Where and when can fans watch the UFC 319 pre-fight press conference and weigh-ins?
Fans can watch the UFC 319 pre-fight press conference on Thursday, August 14, 2025, starting at 6 PM ET / 3 PM PT. It will be held at the Radius Theater in East Pilsen, Chicago, and streamed live on the UFC’s official YouTube channel and other platforms. The ceremonial weigh-ins will also take place at the Radius Theater on Friday, August 15, and will be hosted by Joe Rogan. These events offer an exciting lead-up to fight night.
What are the expert predictions for the main and co-main events at UFC 319?
Expert predictions for the UFC 319 main event, Dricus du Plessis vs. Khamzat Chimaev, are split, indicating a highly competitive fight. Some analysts favor du Plessis to retain his title, while others back Chimaev, often citing his size advantage. For the co-main event, Lerone Murphy vs. Aaron Pico, predictions are also divided. Murphy is seen as the clear favorite due to his undefeated record, but Pico’s knockout power and potential for “ring rust” make it an unpredictable debut.
This UFC 319 event is shaping up to be an unforgettable night of mixed martial arts. With a championship on the line, rising stars debuting, and crucial contender bouts, the action in Chicago is set to deliver. Don’t miss a moment!
