Khamzat Chimaev Dominates Dricus Du Plessis to Claim Middleweight Title
Khamzat Chimaev Dominates Dricus Du Plessis to Claim Middleweight Title: CHICAGO – In a performance that was as methodical as it was dominant, Khamzat Chimaev (15-0) captured the UFC Middleweight Championship with a one-sided decision win over Dricus du Plessis (21-3) in the main event of UFC 319 at the United Center.
Chimaev’s relentless grappling attack stifled du Plessis for nearly the entire fight, leaving the South African star with no answers. While the victory may not have won over fans hoping for a striking war, it solidified Chimaev’s place as one of the most dominant forces in the UFC.
Fight Recap: Chimaev’s Grappling Masterclass
Round 1: Immediate Domination
From the opening bell, Chimaev shot for a takedown, nearly getting caught in a guillotine choke. However, he powered through, transitioning to side control before locking du Plessis in a crucifix position, raining down short punches. Du Plessis eventually freed his arm but remained trapped under Chimaev’s suffocating top control for the rest of the round.
Round 2: More of the Same
Chimaev wasted no time taking du Plessis down again, dragging him against the cage and landing knees while fishing for submissions. The crowd grew restless with the lack of striking exchanges, but Chimaev’s game plan was undeniably effective.
Round 3: Crucifix Returns
The Chechen-born fighter repeated his strategy, securing another takedown and locking du Plessis in the crucifix. This time, he added elbows, increasing the damage. Du Plessis survived but had no answer for Chimaev’s control.
Round 4: Referee Intervention
Referee Marc Goddard stood the fighters up due to inactivity, but Chimaev responded by immediately taking du Plessis down again, maintaining control until the bell.
Round 5: Du Plessis’ Last Stand
Du Plessis finally found some success early in the fifth, landing strikes that forced Chimaev to retreat. However, another takedown nullified his momentum. In a last-ditch effort, du Plessis took Chimaev’s back but failed to secure a submission before time expired.
By the Numbers: Chimaev’s Historic Dominance
- 12 takedowns landed (out of 17 attempts)
- 21:40 of ground control time (88% of the fight)
- 529 total strikes landed (compared to du Plessis’ 45)
- 37 significant strikes (du Plessis: 13)
Du Plessis entered the fight on a four-fight win streak over former champions, but Chimaev’s suffocating style left him helpless.
What’s Next for Chimaev?
With the middleweight belt now around his waist, Chimaev has his sights set on an even more ambitious goal: becoming a three-division champion.
- Welterweight: A potential clash with Leon Edwards or Shavkat Rakhmonov
- Light Heavyweight: A move up to challenge Alex Pereira or Magomed Ankalaev
His performance against du Plessis proved that his grappling can neutralize elite competition, making his multi-division dreams seem more realistic than ever.
FAQs
1. How many takedowns did Khamzat Chimaev land at UFC 319?
Chimaev secured 12 takedowns in 17 attempts, controlling du Plessis for 21 minutes and 40 seconds.
2. Is Khamzat Chimaev now a two-division UFC champion?
No, this is his first UFC title. He previously competed at welterweight but never held the belt.
3. Who could Chimaev fight next?
Potential opponents include:
Leon Edwards (for the welterweight title)
Sean Strickland (if granted an immediate rematch)
Israel Adesanya (if he returns to middleweight)
