UFC Middleweight Champion Dricus Du Plessis is set to face undefeated contender Khamzat Chimaev in a highly anticipated title bout. The championship clash is scheduled to take place at UFC 319 on August 16th at the United Center in Chicago, USA.
The booking of this fight was announced by UFC CEO Dana White during a live session on Instagram.
Du Plessis captured the 185-pound title by defeating Sean Strickland in January 2024. He successfully defended his belt against Strickland in a rematch in February, solidifying his position at the top of the middleweight division. This upcoming bout will mark his second title defense.
Across the octagon stands Khamzat Chimaev, who will finally receive his first shot at a UFC title. “Borz” has been vocal about his championship aspirations since making his promotional debut in July 2020. His ascent was previously slowed by injuries and health issues, but he cemented his status as the likely number one contender with a dominant first-round victory over former champion Robert Whittaker last October.
Gareth Tenby 
Duncan Priestley