Middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis is slated to make his third title defense when he takes on the undefeated Khamzat Chimaev. Their highly anticipated bout is scheduled for UFC 319, which will take place on August 16th at the United Center in Chicago, USA.
UFC CEO Dana White officially announced the fight during a live broadcast streamed on Instagram.
Since claiming the 185-pound title by defeating Sean Strickland in January 2024, Du Plessis has solidified his position as the division`s top fighter with two successful title defenses. According to reports related to the announcement, the South African fighter secured a finish over former champion Israel Adesanya in August and won a decision victory against Strickland in a rematch in February.
His next challenge comes in the form of Chimaev, who is finally set to receive his long-awaited opportunity to fight for a UFC championship. Known as “Borz,” Chimaev has openly expressed his title aspirations since making his UFC debut in July 2020, though his progress towards the top has been slowed by injuries and various health issues. Khamzat cemented his status as a leading contender last October by defeating Robert Whittaker with a first-round stoppage.
