UPDATE: Khamzat Chimaev has made history by becoming the UFC Middleweight Champion following a record-breaking performance at UFC 319 in Chicago on October 7, 2023. The undefeated fighter dismantled former champion Dricus Du Plessis, landing an astonishing 529 total strikes—a new UFC record.
Chimaev’s victory is monumental, showcasing his dominance with a striking differential of +484 strikes, surpassing Max Holloway’s previous record of +312. This incredible achievement comes after Chimaev controlled the match for an overwhelming 21 minutes, 41 seconds, leaving Du Plessis unable to mount a substantial defense.
The night wasn’t just about Chimaev; the co-main event featured an unprecedented double knockout from Carlos Prates and Lerone Murphy, both finishing their opponents with spinning back elbows in the first round, a first in UFC history. This added an electrifying twist to an already thrilling evening.
Brett Okamoto and other analysts are buzzing about the implications of Chimaev’s title win. The question looms: who can challenge this new champion? Chimaev’s grappling and striking prowess make him a formidable presence in the middleweight division. Notably, he has yet to face several top contenders, leaving room for exciting matchups against fighters like Reinier De Ridder and Anthony Hernandez.
“We are now firmly in The Chimaev Era,”
stated UFC analyst Andreas Hale, highlighting the potential for Chimaev to become one of the greatest champions in UFC history.
Despite Chimaev’s remarkable ascent, his journey has not been without obstacles. His battle with COVID-19 and visa issues have previously hindered his career. However, with those challenges behind him, Chimaev is now fully focused on maintaining his health and continuing to dominate the division.
Meanwhile, Lerone Murphy’s performance against Aaron Pico has ignited discussions about his potential title shot. Murphy’s decisive victory over Pico, who was considered a future title contender, has elevated his status and garnered support from UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski.
In another highlight, Carlos Prates rebounded from a setback earlier this year with a stunning knockout of Geoff Neal, showcasing his skills and demanding a spot on the UFC’s upcoming card in Rio de Janeiro. UFC CEO Dana White responded positively to Prates’ request, indicating a bright future for the fighter.
The outcomes of UFC 319 signal a transformative moment in the organization, with fresh champions and rising stars eager to make their mark. As Chimaev takes his place at the top, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this will reshape the middleweight landscape.
What’s Next: UFC fans should stay tuned for updates on potential matchups involving Chimaev and other contenders, as the excitement from UFC 319 continues to reverberate throughout the MMA community.
