UPDATE: Khamzat Chimaev has officially claimed the middleweight championship at UFC 319 in Chicago on October 7, 2023, delivering a jaw-dropping performance against former champion Dricus Du Plessis. Chimaev landed a staggering 529 total strikes, shattering the previous UFC record in a display of dominance that has left the MMA world buzzing.
In a fight that showcased Chimaev’s extraordinary grappling and striking skills, he controlled Du Plessis for a remarkable 21 minutes and 41 seconds, forcing his opponent to the mat repeatedly. This overwhelming victory raises the question: who can challenge Chimaev now that he has ascended to the top of the middleweight division?
Chimaev’s record-breaking strike count eclipsed Max Holloway’s previous high of 447 strikes from 2021. His striking differential of +484 also surpasses Holloway’s +312. This historic performance cements Chimaev’s status as a formidable force in the UFC.
As the newly crowned champion, Chimaev has a range of potential challengers, including top contenders such as Reinier De Ridder, Anthony Hernandez, and Nassourdine Imavov. Despite only having faced Robert Whittaker among the top 15 middleweights, Chimaev’s path is filled with opportunities to further solidify his legacy.
The implications of Chimaev’s win extend beyond the immediate future. If he continues to dominate like he did against Du Plessis, discussions will inevitably turn to his potential to surpass the legendary Anderson Silva’s six-year reign. However, health remains a critical factor; Chimaev’s journey to the title was hampered by COVID-19 and visa issues. With those challenges now seemingly behind him, the world will be watching closely as he embarks on this new chapter.
In other notable fights at UFC 319, both Carlos Prates and Lerone Murphy made headlines with their stunning performances. Prates scored a knockout against Geoff Neal with a spinning backfist just seconds before the end of Round 1, reviving his momentum after a previous loss. Meanwhile, Murphy showcased his skills by finishing his opponent with a similar maneuver, prompting discussions about his potential title shot in the featherweight division.
Following his victory, Prates confidently called for a match on the UFC’s upcoming card in Rio de Janeiro, even suggesting a bout against former welterweight champion Leon Edwards. UFC CEO Dana White promptly acknowledged Prates’ request, further highlighting the excitement around this rising star.
With the spotlight now firmly on Chimaev, Murphy, and Prates, UFC 319 has set the stage for thrilling developments in the MMA landscape. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how these fighters will shape the future of their respective divisions.
As we enter what many are calling “The Chimaev Era,” the urgency to follow these athletes and their journeys is palpable. Expect more updates as the fallout from UFC 319 continues to unfold and the anticipation builds for future matchups.