UFC 319 Roars into Chicago: Bold Predictions and Fight Night Buzz Build Global Anticipation

UFC 319 is coming in with full force—and it’s not just about the title. As the Octagon returns to Chicago for the first time since 2019, the card delivers a fiery collision of contenders, undefeated records, veteran grit, and razor-sharp hype. From inside camps to public denial of rumors, the drama is already in motion.

This global event unites elite talent, spotlighted by a headline bout between middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis and the relentless force of Khamzat Chimaev. Their fight may grab the spotlight, but the pulse of UFC 319 lies in its storytelling—athletic and emotional.

Du Plessis vs Chimaev: A storm of styles and a South African prediction

Dricus du Plessis walks into UFC 319 as a champion carrying pressure, pride, and precision. His opponent, Khamzat Chimaev, is undefeated, explosive, and endlessly hungry. The stakes are high—but behind the scenes, there’s rising confidence from the champion’s inner circle.

Mark Hulme, du Plessis’s trusted training partner, has boldly predicted a swift victory within three rounds, citing the South African’s superior wrestling ability and fight IQ. According to Hulme, this won’t go the distance—and the belt isn’t leaving du Plessis’s waist.

Meanwhile, Chimaev enters the fight with the aura of destruction. Having bulldozed previous opponents, he now seeks gold on one of UFC’s biggest nights.

Paddy Pimblett sets the record straight amid swirling rumors

Outside the Octagon, UFC fans were buzzing with talk of a potential showdown between Paddy Pimblett and Justin Gaethje. Social media speculated, but the Liverpool native has confirmed—he’s not fighting at UFC 319.

Pimblett publicly denied all rumors, stating he plans to return at the end of 2025 instead. Though his name won’t appear on this card, the fact that he even entered the conversation is testament to how high-profile UFC 319 has become in the eyes of fans worldwide.

Xem bài viết này trên Instagram

Bài viết do UFC (@ufc) chia sẻ

A card stacked with action, energy, and elite matchups

What makes UFC 319 different isn’t just the title bout—it’s the depth. From co-mains to rising star fights, the matchups offer a variety of styles and stakes.

Aaron Pico makes his UFC debut in a co-main spotlight against Lerone Murphy. It’s a test of talent and timing, with fight fans eagerly anticipating whether Pico’s long-hyped promise can finally translate inside the Octagon.

Elsewhere, Geoff Neal vs Carlos Prates has been rebooked after delays, Jared Cannonier welcomes Michael “Venom” Page in a style clash, and Jessica Andrade locks horns with Loopy Godinez in what many are calling a must-watch showdown.

Here’s the only bullet list in the article, laying out the full fight feast:

• Tim Elliott vs Kai Asakura (Flyweight)
• Edson Barboza vs Drakkar Klose (Lightweight)
• Bobby Green vs Diego Ferreira (Lightweight)
• Bryan Battle vs Nursulton Ruziboev (Middleweight)
• Chase Hooper vs Alexander Hernandez (Lightweight)
• Gerald Meerschaert vs Michal Oleksiejczuk (Middleweight)
• Karine Silva vs Dione Barbosa (Women’s Flyweight), a change after JJ Aldrich’s withdrawal

Chicago comeback, fight legacy, and a powerful setting

UFC 319 marks the 8th time the organization lands in Chicago, but the first since June 2019. The city’s connection with combat sports runs deep—and fans in the Midwest are bringing the heat back to the Octagon.

There’s added excitement knowing Chicago is the backdrop for this return. The city brings grit, energy, and a distinct crowd flavor that transforms high-level matchups into unforgettable fight nights.

Add in the presence of Caio Borralho as the official backup fighter for the main event, and it’s clear UFC has planned every detail to perfection—even the what-ifs.

UFC 319 isn’t just a fight card—it’s a full-force moment worth experiencing

With every bout, UFC 319 builds its identity as one of the defining events of the year. The main event headlines a story of legacy vs ambition, while the undercard reveals fresh narratives, tension, and athletic artistry in motion.

Whether you’re watching ringside in Chicago or tuning in from across the globe, this is a card that balances elite martial arts with magnetic storytelling. UFC 319 is what happens when passion, preparation, and pressure collide.

Looking for luxurious experience? See more of VIP hospitality here.