Travel ban lifted? Dricus Du Plessis vs. Khamzat Chimaev to headline UFC 319 in Chicago

“The Windy City” is getting an awesome, blockbuster fight.

Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is returning to United Center in Chicago, Ill., on Aug. 16, 2025, with a massive Middleweight title fight as the main event that fans have eagerly awaited.

UFC CEO, Dana White, just revealed on social media that reigning Middleweight champion, Dricus Du Plessis, will defend his strap for the third time against No. 3-ranked contender, Khamzat Chimaev.

Yep, “Borz” can apparently now compete in the United States again (thanks, Donny!).

Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC

Du Plessis (23-2) returns after battering Sean Strickland at UFC 312 to kick-start his 2025 campaign. Before that, he became the first fighter to submit Israel Adesanya at UFC 305 (watch highlights).

Du Plessis is riding an 11-fight win streak and remains undefeated inside the Octagon with a perfect record (9-0).

Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC

Chimaev (14-0), meanwhile, will finally get his UFC title shot at long last.

“Borz” earned his shot at gold by demolishing former division champion, Robert Whittaker, in less than four minutes, submitting him and breaking his jaw in the process (watch highlights).

The 31-year-old has faced several periods of inactivity, which have prolonged his path to the title, including struggles with illness injuries, and travel issues; however, those issues seem behind him (knock on wood).

No other bouts have been announced for the promotion’s return to Chicago, but two local fighters, women’s Bantamweight champion, Julianna Pena, and former Welterweight kingpin, Belal Muhammad, could appear on the card.

Can’t wait!

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