In what’s poised to be a career-defining second, Khamzat Chimaev is able to make UFC historical past. The undefeated Chechen famous person is ready to problem reigning middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis at UFC 319 in Chicago on August 16. Chimaev’s ascent has been nothing in need of meteoric, and this title shot represents the primary main hurdle in his bold plan to turn out to be the first-ever three-division champion within the promotion’s historical past.
The Meteoric Rise of “Borz”
Since bursting onto the scene in 2020, Khamzat Chimaev has captivated the MMA world along with his aggressive and dominant preventing type. He exploded onto the UFC scene by securing three victories in simply eight weeks, shortly establishing himself as probably the most feared prospects within the sport.
Regardless of going through vital setbacks, together with a critical sickness and well-documented struggles with weight chopping, Chimaev’s path to the highest by no means wavered. His elite-level victories over former champions like Kamaru Usman and Robert Whittaker cemented his standing as a legit title contender within the middleweight division, setting the stage for this high-stakes showdown.
The Championship Hurdle: Dricus du Plessis
The problem that awaits Chimaev is Dricus du Plessis, a champion identified for his distinctive and unconventional type. Whereas Chimaev has described du Plessis’s preventing method as “bizarre,” he has additionally acknowledged the champion’s effectiveness, making this a captivating stylistic matchup.
This bout is not only a few title; it’s a pivotal second that might reshape Chimaev’s complete legacy. A victory over du Plessis wouldn’t solely crown him as the brand new middleweight king but additionally kickstart his journey towards conquering two extra weight lessons.
Chimaev’s Three-Division Dream
Chimaev has been very vocal about his need to safe championships at three completely different weight lessons. His plan is to first defeat du Plessis, then doubtlessly transfer again all the way down to the welterweight division to problem present champion Jack Della Maddalena. He additionally has his sights set on the sunshine heavyweight title, demonstrating an unprecedented stage of ambition and confidence. Whether or not he can efficiently navigate the challenges of three completely different divisions stays to be seen, however the journey begins on August 16.
Key PointDetailsFighterKhamzat “Borz” ChimaevEventUFC 319 on August 16, 2025OpponentMiddleweight Champion Dricus du PlessisCareer HighlightThree victories in eight weeks upon his 2020 debut.Current WinsDefeated former champions Kamaru Usman and Robert Whittaker.Future GoalAims to turn out to be the UFC’s first three-division champion.Welterweight TargetCurrent champion Jack Della Maddalena.
Often Requested Questions (FAQs) About Khamzat Chimaev’s Profession
What’s Khamzat Chimaev’s subsequent combat?
Khamzat Chimaev is scheduled to problem Dricus du Plessis for the middleweight title at UFC 319, which is able to happen on August 16.
What are Chimaev’s aspirations past the middleweight title?
Chimaev has brazenly acknowledged his aim is to turn out to be the primary three-division champion in UFC historical past. This is able to contain successful titles within the middleweight, welterweight, and light-weight heavyweight divisions.
What setbacks has Chimaev confronted in his profession?
Regardless of his fast rise, Chimaev has confronted a number of setbacks, together with a critical sickness and struggles with weight chopping that led to a big change in his combat schedule.
Who has Chimaev defeated to earn this title shot?
Chimaev has earned his title shot with spectacular victories over a number of high-profile fighters, together with former champions Kamaru Usman and Robert Whittaker.
