UFC 319, held on August 16, 2025, at the United Center in Chicago, was one of the most talked-about MMA events of the year. The card featured explosive knockouts, historic performances, and a new UFC Middleweight Champion.

Headlining the night was the much-anticipated showdown between Dricus du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev. After five intense rounds, Chimaev claimed the middleweight title in dominant fashion, shaking up the division and sparking heated debates among fans and analysts.


UFC 319 Results: Khamzat Chimaev Wins
UFC 319 Results: Khamzat Chimaev Wins


Khamzat Chimaev Defeats Dricus du Plessis

The main event saw Khamzat Chimaev (previously undefeated) challenge the reigning champion Dricus du Plessis. From the opening bell, Chimaev showcased his world-class grappling and relentless pressure, smothering du Plessis and neutralizing his striking game.


Result: Chimaev won via unanimous decision (50-44, 50-44, 50-44).

Historic Record: He set a UFC record for total strikes landed in a middleweight title fight.

Fan Reaction: While some praised his dominance, others criticized the fight for lacking striking fireworks.


Nonetheless, Chimaev is now the new UFC Middleweight Champion, and his reign promises blockbuster matchups ahead.


Other Highlights from UFC 319

1. Spinning Back Elbow Knockouts

Two fighters delivered highlight-reel moments:

    Lerone Murphy scored a brutal spinning back elbow KO.

    Carlos Prates followed with his own spinning elbow knockout, electrifying the crowd.

Both performances earned Performance of the Night bonuses.

2. The Ultimate Fighter Finale

The card also hosted the Flyweight Final of TUF: Team Cormier vs. Team Sonnen, giving fans a taste of the next generation of UFC talent.

3. UFC Returns to Chicago

UFC 319 marked the promotion’s first event in Chicago since 2019, filling the United Center with an energized crowd and breaking attendance records for MMA in the city.


Bonus Awards

The UFC handed out multiple fighter bonuses for spectacular finishes and performances:

Fight of the Night: Main card war (du Plessis vs. Chimaev) despite its grappling dominance.

Performance of the Night: Lerone Murphy & Carlos Prates (KO wins).


Impact on the UFC Middleweight Division

Chimaev’s victory has reshaped the middleweight division. Possible future matchups now include:


Chimaev vs. Israel Adesanya (former champion).

Chimaev vs. Sean Strickland (top contender).

A potential rematch with du Plessis.


Fans are already speculating about whether Chimaev can hold the belt for long or if challengers will find a way to crack his grappling-heavy style.


Conclusion

UFC 319 in Chicago delivered everything MMA fans crave—new champions, spectacular knockouts, and unforgettable drama. With Khamzat Chimaev crowned as the new UFC Middleweight Champion, the landscape of the division looks more exciting than ever.

The event not only marked the UFC’s return to Chicago after six years but also set the stage for future superfights that will define the promotion’s 2025 run.


FAQ's

Q1. Who won the UFC 319 main event?
Khamzat Chimaev defeated Dricus du Plessis via unanimous decision to become the new UFC Middleweight Champion.

Q2. Where was UFC 319 held?
It took place on August 16, 2025, at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois.

Q3. What records did Khamzat Chimaev set at UFC 319?
He set a UFC record for total strikes landed in a middleweight title fight.

Q4. Which fighters earned Performance of the Night bonuses?
Lerone Murphy and Carlos Prates for their spinning back elbow knockouts.

Q5. Why was UFC 319 significant for Chicago?
It marked the UFC’s first return to Chicago since 2019, drawing a huge crowd and global attention.