UPDATE: Khamzat Chimaev has made headlines by claiming the UFC middleweight belt with a decisive victory over Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 319 on October 7, 2023, in Chicago. Chimaev dominated the fight, winning by unanimous decision with all three judges scoring it 50-44.
Chimaev (15-0) showcased his grappling prowess from the very start, executing a takedown in the opening seconds that kept Du Plessis (23-3) on the defensive throughout the first round. While Du Plessis managed to avoid serious injury, Chimaev’s control was evident as he delivered relentless ground-and-pound, especially in the third round.
Chimaev expressed respect for Du Plessis post-fight, stating, “That guy is tough to finish. Respect that guy. He was the only champion to say ‘I’m in.’ This guy has a big heart.” Despite a late surge by Du Plessis, including a takedown and an attempt at a guillotine choke, it was not enough to turn the tide in his favor.
“Nobody wants to be in a crucifix getting punched in the head like that. It’s got to be the most frustrating, suck the heart and soul out of you,” said UFC president Dana White, reflecting on the one-sided nature of the bout.
In a significant moment for the UFC, this event marked the organization’s return to Chicago for the first time in six years, becoming the highest-grossing event at the United Center. The electrifying card also featured standout performances, including two spectacular spinning elbow knockouts. Carlos Prates (22-7) and Lerone Murphy (17-0-1) both achieved first-round finishes, with Murphy securing his place as a potential challenger for the featherweight title.
Murphy, who took the fight on three weeks’ notice, stunned Aaron Pico (13-5) with a decisive right spinning elbow, while Prates delivered the ninth spinning elbow finish in UFC history by knocking out Geoff Neal (16-7), marking Neal’s first knockout loss.
Michael Page (24-3) also shone in the middleweight fight, defeating Jared Cannonier (19-10) with a knockout in the second round. Timothy Elliott (22-13-1) opened the main card with an impressive guillotine submission in the second round against Kai Askura (21-6), turning the fight in his favor after a challenging first round.
As fans celebrate Chimaev’s victory and the thrilling matches from UFC 319, all eyes will be on what’s next for these fighters. Chimaev’s championship win solidifies his status as a top contender, while Du Plessis vows to return stronger. UFC president Dana White has already promised Prates a fight in his home country of Brazil on October 11, making the future of the division even more exciting.
Stay tuned for further developments as the UFC landscape continues to evolve following this landmark event.
