UFC 319 Predictions: Chimaev vs Du Plessis

Get ready for one of the biggest mixed martial arts events of the year as UFC 319 lands in Chicago, USA. Headlining the spectacular fight card is a highly anticipated championship bout between two of the sport’s fiercest competitors. Dricus Du Plessis, the reigning middleweight king, will defend his title against the undefeated and incredibly dangerous Khamzat Chimaev.

British fans, take note: this is a late-night affair. The main card is scheduled to begin at 3 am BST on Sunday, 17th August. The main event ring walks for Du Plessis vs Chimaev are expected to take place around 5:30 am BST. You can catch all the action live on TNT Sports and their streaming service, discovery+.

UFC 319 Main Event: Du Plessis vs Chimaev

The hype for this bout is immense. Dricus Du Plessis, a champion known for his unorthodox and relentless style, has already solidified his legacy with impressive wins over elite fighters like Israel Adesanya and Sean Strickland. He’s a fighter who thrives on pressure and has a knack for dragging his opponents into deep, uncomfortable waters.

Standing opposite him is the formidable Khamzat Chimaev, a fighter who has torn through two different weight classes with frightening efficiency. His wrestling is among the best in the UFC, and he possesses fight-ending power and an aggressive, forward-moving style. Chimaev has never been defeated, and a win here would be his first championship belt, cementing his status as a true superstar.

This is a classic clash of styles and a crucial fight for the middleweight division. Can Du Plessis’s unique approach outwit the terrifyingly dominant Chimaev?

The Co-Main Event: Murphy vs Pico

For UK fans, the co-main event offers a special treat. Manchester’s own Lerone Murphy, the undefeated “Miracle,” takes on American wrestling sensation and former Bellator star Aaron Pico in a thrilling featherweight contest.

Lerone Murphy is a technical striker with brilliant composure, who has shown he can beat top-level competition. This short-notice fight is a massive opportunity for Murphy to prove he belongs at the very top of the featherweight rankings. Aaron Pico is making his highly anticipated UFC debut after a successful stint with Bellator. His explosive athleticism and powerful wrestling could pose a serious threat to Murphy’s undefeated record.

This co-main event is a true test of a rising star’s consistency against an explosive newcomer’s raw talent.

UFC 319 Full Fight Card

Here is the full UFC 319 fight card for your reference: