UFC 319 Preview and Predictions – What to Expect in Chicago

As fight fans gear up for UFC 319, all eyes are on the headline showdown. Set for August 16, 2025, at the United Center in Chicago, this card promises high stakes, star power, and spectacle.

Main Event: Du Plessis vs Chimaev

At the top of the bill is the middleweight title fight between reigning champion Dricus du Plessis and undefeated contender Khamzat Chimaev. Chimaev enters this matchup as the betting favorite, largely due to his elite wrestling, high takedown success, and striking accuracy. Analysts expect his grappling to be a decisive factor.

Former champion Chris Weidman predicts Du Plessis will retain, citing stamina concerns for Chimaev in a five-round war. Meanwhile, Israel Adesanya warns not to underestimate Du Plessis’s resilience and unpredictable style. The consensus: expect a fast start from Chimaev, but Du Plessis might weather the storm.

Best Picks Across the Card

Here are some top betting selections and insights heading into the event:

Over 2.5 rounds is favored for the main event, suggesting a competitive battle rather than an early finish.
Strawweight bout: Loopy Godínez over Jessica Andrade. Godínez’s wrestling advantage and control tactics make her a steady pick.
Lightweight bout: Edson Barboza over Drakkar Klose. Barboza’s leg kicks and striking defense give him a clear edge if the fight stays standing.
DFS insight backs Khamzat Chimaev: expect him to break ground early, though Du Plessis could push the pace if he enacts a sprawl-and-strike game plan.

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Predictions and Must-Watch Fights

Du Plessis vs. Chimaev likely sets the tone: explosive early rounds expected with pressure on Chimaev to secure a fast finish.
Aaron Pico vs Lerone Murphy: Pico makes his UFC debut against Murphy’s experience. Murphy is the safer pick on paper.
Michael Page vs Jared Cannonier: Page’s movement and precision favor him in a three-round matchup, especially as Cannonier’s stock has dropped recently.
Kai Asakura vs Tim Elliott: Flyweight fireworks expected—Asakura might hold an edge with finishing capability.

Final Thoughts and Recommended Picks

UFC 319 has everything—from title drama to high-stakes debuts. Here’s a quick rundown of solid picks:

Du Plessis vs Chimaev: expect a pacey, gritty battle. Lean toward Chimaev for early chaos; Du Plessis for durability or later rounds.
Godínez over Andrade looks smart; Godínez should be able to control the fight.
Barboza over Klose unless ground control comes early.
Murphy and Page offer reliable value based on experience and stylistic advantages.

Tune in on August 16 for what could be one of the most unpredictable cards of the year.