Dricus du Plessis to defend title against Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 319

UFC overlord Dana White took to Instagram Live on Tuesday night to break the news. After clearing out the top of the middleweight division with wins over Israel Adesanya, Robert Whittaker and two over Sean Strickland, du Plessis now readies himself for a rising challenger.

The undefeated Chimaev has earned his title shot with a streak of impressive victories over Gilbert Burns, Kevin Holland, Kamaru Usman and Whittaker. In his last fight, the Chechen ran through former champion Whittaker, submitting him in the first round.

However, illness and injury have resulted in him spending an extended period on the sidelines. When Chimaev steps into the octagon with du Plessis, it will have been ten months since his victory over Whittaker. 

The South African has won 20 of his 23 fights by finish, while Chimaev holds an undefeated record of 16-0.

Du Plessis has been mentally preparing for Chimaev's seemingly unmatched wrestling since his dominant title defence against Strickland at UFC 312 in February.

"I think everyone has been moving backwards trying to evade that takedown," the 31-year-old told the press in February.

"I'm not scared of Khamzat's wrestling. I'm not evading. I'm not trying to stay off the ground with Khamzat. That's the mistake everyone makes. I'm going to fight Khamzat wherever the fight goes."

The promotion also announced Ilia Topuria v Charles Oliveira at UFC 317 in June for the lightweight title being vacated by Islam Makhachev.

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