MMA world Reacts After Khamzat Chimaev Wins Middleweight Title Over Dricus du Plessis At UFC 319

Mixed reviews from fighters as Chimaev claims the middleweight title with heavy grappling.

Written by Jake Blend
Last updated on August 17th, 2025
Khamzat Chimaev
Khamzat Chimaev - Image credit @UFC X.com

UFC 319 headlined by Khamzat Chimaev vs. Dricus du Plessis took place on August 16, 2025, at United Center in Chicago. Chimaev claimed the middleweight title with a clear unanimous decision win (50-44 across all cards). He landed 12 of 17 takedowns, controlled over 21 minutes on the ground, and outstruck du Plessis by 529 to 45 total strikes.

Chimaev wasted no time—within seconds of Round One, he secured a double leg takedown and quickly moved into a crucifix position, landing strikes while du Plessis defended sharp.

The same pattern repeated in Rounds Two, Three, and Four: Chimaev relentlessly took du Plessis down, maintained dominant positions, and used control to shut down offense.

In Round Five, du Plessis showed heart with a reversal and a short-lived guillotine attempt, but Chimaev escaped and finished on top.

Experts and fighters react to the style

Chimaev’s performance drew mixed reactions across the MMA community. Some praised its effectiveness—undeniably a masterclass in grappling and control. UFC president Dana White noted how difficult it must be “getting dominated on the ground like that.”

Others criticized the lack of action. Paulo Costa remarked bluntly “the Boring Chechen lol fuck that guy. I gonna play poker instead,” while Nate Diaz added, “Can’t fight”.

Chimaev’s five-round dominance not only earns him the middleweight belt but also cements him as a defining grappler in his division. Du Plessis, though losing, remains a respected contender—ready to rebuild and come back stronger.

Published on August 17, 2025 at 9:16 am
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Jake Blend

Jake Blend
Jake Blend is an experienced combat sports writer with a Bachelor's degree in Journalism. Over the past 6 years, he has relentlessly covered the evolving landscapes of mixed martial arts, boxing, and Muay Thai. Whether he is reporting on the latest UFC matchups, breaking down championship fight camps, or interviewing athletes, Jake's deep-rooted passion for the sport shines through in every article.

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