The upcoming middleweight title bout between Dricus du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 319 is being hailed as one of the year`s most anticipated fights.
Set for August 16th in Chicago, reigning champion Dricus du Plessis will defend his middleweight title against the unbeaten Khamzat Chimaev in the main event. This marks du Plessis`s third title defense.
Both fighters boast impressive records, with a combined 26 consecutive wins. Chimaev, known for his dominant wrestling, has quickly ascended through the UFC ranks, securing consecutive victories over former champions Kamaru Usman and Robert Whittaker.
Dricus du Plessis, the current champion, possesses a highly unconventional yet remarkably effective fighting style. This unique approach has previously troubled top contenders and former champions like Israel Adesanya, Sean Strickland, and Robert Whittaker.
Du Plessis has demonstrated remarkable resilience throughout his career, notably overcoming challenges against fighters like Derek Brunson and Darren Till, even while managing a severe breathing issue that restricted nasal oxygen intake.
Darren Till, who has trained with Chimaev and previously faced du Plessis in a tough bout, has offered his perspective on the upcoming main event.
Darren Till Predicts Early Finish for Khamzat Chimaev Against Dricus du Plessis at UFC 319
Drawing from his experience with both fighters, the former title challenger Till was asked for his prediction on the outcome.
With respect, I’m never gonna look past Dricus because he’s super dedicated. He’s super strong. He’s got that awkward style that doesn’t make any sense…
Despite his respect, Till firmly predicted Chimaev`s victory, stating:
I think Khamzat will beat him inside two rounds. I really do believe that.
He mentioned his recent conversation with Chimaev:
I was speaking to Khamzat on FaceTime the other day because I was meant to be going off to Dubai to help with the camp—Khamzat knows it’s a tough fight. But, Khamzat trains like a beast.
Incidentally, Till himself appears to be in significantly better physical condition compared to when he last competed in the UFC.
Darren Till Confidently Claims He Could Defeat Dricus du Plessis Now
Till`s last UFC fight was in 2022 against du Plessis, who was ranked #14 at the time.
In that bout, after narrowly surviving the first round, Till rallied in the second, causing difficulties for a visibly tired du Plessis in the striking exchanges.
Du Plessis ultimately secured a submission victory via rear-naked choke in the third round. However, years later and seemingly revitalized, Till expressed confidence in his ability to defeat the current champion today.
Till attributed his current form to consistent effort:
For two years now, I’ve stayed so consistent in the gym. My boxing’s got so incredibly good. Even my body type’s changed.
He boldly claimed:
If I went back to the UFC now [at] middleweight. I’d f—— tear Dricus’ head off.
Till also added a personal message for the champion:
Tell Dricus I said f— him. I can’t stand his guts because he’s so s— [that] he’s so good.
