Khamzat Chimaev: VS DDP date| Khabib Relationship| Weigh in

Table of Contents

Hook: The buzz around UFC 319 — an electrifying title fight between undefeated Khamzat Chimaev and reigning middleweight champion Dricus “DDP” du Plessis.
Overview of the article’s focus: fight date, weigh-in insights, and Chimaev’s dynamic with Khabib.

UFC 319 is scheduled for Saturday, August 16, 2025, at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois.
Broadcast:
- Early prelims start around 6:00 PM ET.
- Main card begins at 10:00 PM ET on ESPN+ PPV.
Significance: Return of UFC to Chicago since 2019.

Both fighters successfully made weight:
- Chimaev came in at 183 lbs, du Plessis at the 185 lbs title limit.
The final face-off turned heated — Chimaev screamed shirtless, shoved du Plessis, prompting security intervention. Chimaev warned, “He’s dead tomorrow,” while du Plessis vowed to finish him decisively.
Training edge: Chimaev reportedly “mauling ten sparring partners a day” — a ruthless camp to address conditioning concerns.

Betting strongly favors Chimaev (–250), with 77% of wagered money on him.
Expert picks:
- Submission win for Chimaev is a popular bet.
- Some analysts also suggest the fight will surpass 2.5 rounds, citing tremendous endurance.
Inside perspective: DDP’s teammate Mark Hulme predicts a “DDP 2.0” and a potential quick finish within three rounds.
Israel Adesanya, impressed by Chimaev, still backs du Plessis’s grit — calling him someone who “finds a way.” Adesanya’s remarks add narrative intrigue. Khamzat Chimaev vs DDP.

Past tension:
- An altercation occurred at UFC 280 between Chimaev and Khabib’s cousin, Abubakar Nurmagomedov, sparking a brief feud.
- Chimaev later acknowledged immaturity and resolved the misunderstanding, expressing regret and maturity.
Not related: Despite similarities (accent, style, dominance), Chimaev and Khabib aren’t biologically related.
Mutual respect: In later remarks, Chimaev said he “likes” Khabib and even drew artistic inspiration from him.

Quick bio:
- Born May 1, 1994. 6’2”, 185 lb, Orthodox stance, perfect 14-0 UFC record.
- Stats: High striking output, 100% takedown defense, expert submission game.
Delayed ascent:
- Career progression was hampered by illness and visa issues; UFC title shot arrives as a culmination of perseverance.

Anticipation peaks: high stakes, contrasting styles, storylines weaving personal redemption, hype, and legacy.
UFC 319 isn’t just about the title — it’s a crossroads of ambition, legacy and MMA’s evolving era.
Invitation for reader previews, opinions, picks.

FAQs

When is Khamzat Chimaev vs DDP taking place?
The fight airs on August 16, 2025, at the United Center in Chicago. The main card starts at 10:00 PM ET via ESPN+ PPV.
Did Khamzat Chimaev make weight?
Yes—Chimaev weighed in at 183 lb, under the middleweight title limit, and du Plessis made the necessary 185 lb limit.
What happened during the face-off?
The final stare-down turned intense — Chimaev let out a scream without removing his shirt and shoved du Plessis through barriers, prompting security to intervene.
What is the history between Chimaev and Khabib?
They were never related. A tense moment arose in 2022 after an altercation with Khabib’s cousin, but the conflict was later squashed, leading to mutual respect. Chimaev has expressed admiration for Khabib.
Who is the betting favorite?
Chimaev is the favorite at –250, with most money backing him. Submission victories and fights lasting beyond 2.5 rounds are popular bets.

Ratings