UFC 319 is shaping up to be a blockbuster this weekend, delivering a stacked card topped by a high-stakes middleweight title bout between reigning champion Dricus du Plessis and dangerous challenger Khamzat Chimaev. The United Center in Chicago will be rocking, and the buzz is undeniable. From intense staredowns to electric fan energy, fight week has already turned into a spectacle—capped off by Chimaev sending a stinging message to the champ that set the tone for fight night fireworks.
UFC 319: Khamzat Chimaev Sends a Chilling Warning to Dricus du Plessis originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
Chimaev’s bold pre-fight warning adds fuel to the fire ahead of UFC 319’s middleweight title clash in Chicago
UFC 319 is shaping up to be a blockbuster this weekend, delivering a stacked card topped by a high-stakes middleweight title bout between reigning champion Dricus du Plessis and dangerous challenger Khamzat Chimaev. The United Center in Chicago will be rocking, and the buzz is undeniable. From intense staredowns to electric fan energy, fight week has already turned into a spectacle—capped off by Chimaev sending a stinging message to the champ that set the tone for fight night fireworks.
During the UFC 319 press conference, the challenger had the crowd firmly on his side.
Chimaev was met with a wave of cheers, while du Plessis received an equally loud chorus of boos. Rather than shrink from the reception, the champion embraced it, smiling and telling the audience they were the best boos he’d ever heard—before reminding them they’d be cheering his name once the fight is over.
Khamzat Chimaev sends Dricus du Plessis a message ahead of #UFC319:
— MMA Fighting (@MMAFighting) August 15, 2025
"Africa is never going to see the belt again." pic.twitter.com/O19fi4GYeM
With the momentum of the crowd behind him, Chimaev seized the moment to send a blunt warning to the South African titleholder. In a clip captured by MMA Fighting, Chimaev cut off du Plessis mid-sentence to deliver a cold promise: ‘Africa is never going to see the belts again.’ The comment drew roars from his supporters and intensified the already simmering rivalry between the two unbeaten contenders.
Saturday’s main event promises a clash of contrasting strengths—du Plessis’ awkward, unorthodox striking style against Chimaev’s relentless grappling and submission expertise. With both fighters holding undefeated UFC records and the middleweight title at stake, the outcome could redefine the division’s hierarchy. Fans can expect nothing short of a war in Chicago.
Related: UFC 319 - Three Fighters Who Could Get Cut If They Lose
Related: Dricus Du Plessis Breaks Silence on Brutal Sparring Rumor Before UFC 319
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Aug 15, 2025, where it first appeared.
Category: General Sports
