By Rolando Cronin 
A Night of Unforgettable Fights in Chicago
On August 16, 2025, the United Center in Chicago became the epicenter of MMA history as UFC 319 delivered a night of jaw-dropping moments. The main event saw Khamzat Chimaev dismantle Dricus Du Plessis to claim the UFC middleweight title, ending an 11-fight win streak for the South African champion. This wasn’t just a fight—it was a statement from a fighter who’s now the talk of the MMA world.
The Rise of Khamzat Chimaev: A New King in the Middleweight Division
From Chechen Prodigy to UFC Champion
Khamzat Chimaev, the undefeated Chechen-born fighter, entered UFC 319 with a 14-0 record and a reputation for relentless grappling. His performance against Du Plessis was a masterclass in dominance, showcasing why fans and analysts alike call him “Borz” (The Wolf). With 12 takedowns and over 21 minutes of ground control, Chimaev left no doubt about his supremacy.
Dricus Du Plessis: The Fallen Champion’s Grit
Dricus Du Plessis, the former champion with a 23-2 record, had defended his title twice against elite fighters like Israel Adesanya and Sean Strickland. Despite his heart and late fifth-round surge, he couldn’t escape Chimaev’s suffocating control. His gracious post-fight comments, praising Chimaev’s skill, showed the class of a true warrior.
The Main Event: Round-by-Round Breakdown
Round 1: Chimaev Sets the Tone
Chimaev wasted no time, securing a takedown just seven seconds into the fight. He pinned Du Plessis in a crucifix position, peppering him with short punches while the Chicago crowd chanted “Khamzat! Khamzat!” Though the strikes lacked knockout power, Du Plessis was stuck, unable to mount any offense.
Round 2: Relentless Pressure
The second round mirrored the first, with Chimaev dragging Du Plessis to the mat and attacking with knees to the thighs. Du Plessis fought to stand but was smothered against the cage, absorbing punishment. The crowd’s boos grew louder, craving more stand-up action, but Chimaev’s game plan was clear: control and dominate.
Round 3: Blood and Crucifixes
Chimaev’s third-round dominance saw him draw blood from Du Plessis with sharp elbows from the crucifix. The champion’s face showed the toll, yet he refused to quit, surviving the round despite Chimaev’s relentless pressure. This was a display of grappling mastery rarely seen in title fights.
Round 4: A Brief Hope Dashed
Referee Marc Goddard stood the fighters up due to a lack of action, giving Du Plessis a fleeting chance. But Chimaev responded with another takedown, reasserting control. His 7-for-8 takedown success rate in this round alone underscored his wrestling prowess, leaving Du Plessis bloodied and battered.
Round 5: Du Plessis’ Last Stand
Du Plessis came alive in the final round, landing strikes and briefly reversing to top position. He attempted a guillotine choke, but Chimaev slipped out, regaining control. Despite a late surge, Du Plessis couldn’t overcome the deficit, and Chimaev won a unanimous decision (50-44, 50-44, 50-44).
Why This Fight Mattered: A Personal Reflection
My First UFC Event Experience
I remember my first UFC event—UFC 229 in 2018, watching Khabib Nurmagomedov dominate Conor McGregor. The energy in the arena was electric, much like the buzz at UFC 319. Sitting among Chicago fans, I felt the crowd’s mixed emotions—frustration at Chimaev’s wrestling-heavy style but awe at his control. It reminded me why MMA captivates: it’s raw, unpredictable, and deeply human.
The Emotional Weight of a Title Change
Watching Du Plessis lose his belt was bittersweet. He’d been a charismatic champion, but Chimaev’s performance was undeniable. His post-fight words, “I just came in, work like I do in the gym,” radiated confidence, while Du Plessis’ promise to return showed his resilience. This fight was a clash of heart and skill, leaving fans like me buzzing.
UFC 319’s Other Show-Stealing Moments
Lerone Murphy’s Spinning Elbow KO
In the co-main event, Lerone Murphy welcomed UFC newcomer Aaron Pico with a devastating spinning back elbow knockout at 3:21 of Round 1. Pico’s wrestling kept him in control early, but Murphy’s perfectly timed strike ended it, earning a $50,000 bonus and a potential title shot against Alexander Volkanovski.
Carlos Prates’ Highlight-Reel Finish
Carlos Prates delivered another spinning back elbow KO, flattening Geoff Neal at 4:59 of Round 1. The welterweight bout ended with a loud pop as Neal hit the canvas, marking the first time he’d been knocked out. Prates’ flair and post-fight callout for a Brazil card spot stole the show.
Michael Page’s Masterclass
Michael “Venom” Page outstruck Jared Cannonier for a unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28). His flashy footwork and knockdowns in Rounds 1 and 2 thrilled fans, though Cannonier’s late takedown made it close. Page’s third UFC win cements him as a middleweight contender.
| Fight | Winner | Method | Round/Time | Bonus |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chimaev vs. Du Plessis | Khamzat Chimaev | Unanimous Decision | 5 (25:00) | None |
| Murphy vs. Pico | Lerone Murphy | KO (Spinning Elbow) | 1 (3:21) | $50K |
| Prates vs. Neal | Carlos Prates | KO (Spinning Elbow) | 1 (4:59) | $50K |
| Page vs. Cannonier | Michael Page | Unanimous Decision | 3 (15:00) | None |
| Elliott vs. Asakura | Tim Elliott | Submission (Guillotine) | 2 (4:39) | None |
How to Follow UFC 319: Scores, Updates, and Highlights
Where to Get Live Updates
Missed the action? Platforms like ESPN, UFC.com, and CBS Sports provided live blogs and results for UFC 319. ESPN MMA’s X posts, like their August 17, 2025, update announcing Chimaev’s win, kept fans in the loop with real-time highlights.
Best Platforms for Free Highlights
Free highlights are available on UFC’s YouTube channel, ESPN MMA, and FightMAG. Clips of Chimaev’s takedowns and Murphy’s KO were uploaded within hours, perfect for fans wanting to relive the night’s biggest moments without a subscription.
Top Tools for MMA Fans
- UFC Fight Pass: Streams full fights, post-fight interviews, and exclusive content.
- ESPN App: Live scores, analysis, and highlight videos for global fans.
- Tapology: Detailed fight stats, fighter profiles, and fan predictions.
- X: Real-time reactions from @ufc, @espnmma, and @ChampRDS for instant updates.
Comparing UFC Coverage Platforms
| Platform | Live Streaming | Free Highlights | Stats & Analysis | Global Access |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UFC Fight Pass | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| ESPN | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| CBS Sports | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Tapology | No | No | Yes | Yes |
UFC Fight Pass is ideal for die-hard fans wanting full access, while ESPN and CBS Sports offer free highlights and analysis for casual viewers. Tapology shines for stats enthusiasts.
Pros and Cons of Following UFC 319
Pros
- High-Octane Action: Knockouts like Murphy’s and Prates’ kept fans on edge.
- Accessible Coverage: Free highlights and live blogs on ESPN, UFC.com, and X.
- Global Reach: Streams available via ESPN+ and UFC Fight Pass for international fans.
- Engaging Community: X posts from fans and analysts create a vibrant discussion.
Cons
- Subscription Costs: Full fights require UFC Fight Pass or ESPN+ subscriptions.
- Time Zone Challenges: Chicago’s 10 PM ET start was tough for some global fans.
- Wrestling-Heavy Main Event: Some fans booed Chimaev’s grappling focus, craving more strikes.
The Impact of Chimaev’s Win: What’s Next?
A New Era in Middleweight
Chimaev’s 15-0 record and 484-strike differential—the largest in UFC history—signal a dominant reign ahead. His post-fight ambition to chase titles in welterweight and light heavyweight sounds audacious but plausible. Who can stop him? Names like Sean Strickland or a rematch with Du Plessis are already circulating.
Du Plessis’ Road to Redemption
Du Plessis, now 23-3, vowed to reclaim his belt, showing the heart that made him a fan favorite. His next fight could be a high-stakes bout against a top contender like Robert Whittaker, setting the stage for a potential rematch with Chimaev. His resilience ensures he’ll remain a force.
People Also Ask (PAA)
Who won the UFC 319 middleweight title fight?
Khamzat Chimaev defeated Dricus Du Plessis by unanimous decision (50-44, 50-44, 50-44) to become the new UFC middleweight champion on August 16, 2025.
Where can I watch UFC 319 highlights?
Free highlights are available on UFC’s YouTube channel, ESPN MMA, and FightMAG. UFC Fight Pass offers full fight replays and post-fight interviews for subscribers.
What was the most memorable moment of UFC 319?
Lerone Murphy and Carlos Prates’ back-to-back spinning back elbow KOs in the main card stole the show, earning $50,000 bonuses and widespread praise on X.
How did Khamzat Chimaev win the title?
Chimaev dominated with 12 takedowns and 21:40 of ground control, smothering Du Plessis with grappling and outlanding him 529-45 in total strikes.
FAQ
How can I watch UFC 319 full fights?
UFC Fight Pass and ESPN+ offer full fight replays. Check ufc.com or espn.com for subscription details and regional availability.
What made Chimaev’s performance so dominant?
Chimaev’s 12 takedowns, 21:40 of ground control, and 484-strike differential overwhelmed Du Plessis, showcasing unparalleled grappling and control.
Are free UFC 319 highlights available?
Yes, UFC’s YouTube channel, ESPN MMA, and FightMAG post free highlight videos, including Chimaev’s win and Murphy’s KO.
Who else won at UFC 319?
Lerone Murphy, Carlos Prates, Michael Page, and Tim Elliott won on the main card, with notable KOs and submissions across the prelims.
What’s next for Khamzat Chimaev?
Chimaev may defend his title against top contenders or pursue belts in welterweight or light heavyweight, as he’s hinted at a three-division goal.
Why UFC 319 Will Be Remembered
UFC 319 wasn’t just about Chimaev’s crowning—it was a night of heart-pounding finishes and career-defining moments. From Murphy’s and Prates’ spinning elbow KOs to Chimaev’s historic dominance, the event delivered drama that MMA fans will talk about for years. Whether you’re catching highlights on YouTube, diving into stats on Tapology, or joining the X conversation, UFC 319 proved why the UFC remains the pinnacle of combat sports. Stay tuned for what’s next in this thrilling new chapter of the middleweight division.
Sources:
- UFC.com: Main Card Results | UFC 319: Du Plessis vs Chimaev
- ESPN: Live analysis from UFC 319: Dricus Du Plessis vs. Khamzat Chimaev
- CBS Sports: UFC 319 results, highlights
- USA Today: UFC 319 results, highlights from Du Plessis vs Chimaev
- Sporting News: UFC 319 full card results
- Sky Sports: UFC 319: Khamzat Chimaev beats Dricus Du Plessis
- X Posts: @ufc, @espnmma, @ChampRDS