Khamzat Chimaev is the new UFC middleweight champion after dismantling South African fighter Dricus du Plessis in a one-sided contest at UFC 319 on Saturday. The Chechen-born wrestling specialist claimed a unanimous decision victory, with all three judges scoring it 50-44.
From the opening round, Chimaev showcased his grappling dominance. He secured an early takedown, controlling du Plessis in a crucifix position and landing punches. While his strikes caused little damage, his relentless pressure left the former champion unable to mount an offense.
The story continued through the second, third, and fourth rounds as Chimaev smothered du Plessis with choke attempts, knee strikes, and suffocating control on the mat. Du Plessis showed a late spark in the final round but could not turn the tide.
“I never game-plan. I just came in, work like I do in the gym,” Chimaev said after the fight. “That guy is strong, I couldn’t finish, respect that guy, he’s the only champion who was saying my name. This guy has real heart, a real lion, a real African lion.”
Du Plessis, who lost the belt gracefully, vowed to return stronger. “He deserves this 100 percent, he beat me fair and square tonight. He was the better man tonight, and I’ll be back. I’ll come and get my belt back, but for now, it’s his and he deserves it, and he has to enjoy it,” he said.
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