Dricus du Plessis Promises Knockout Victory Against Khamzat Chimaev At UFC 319

All the preparation is complete, and the stage is set for one of the most highly anticipated middleweight battles in recent UFC history. South Africa’s Dricus du Plessis, the reigning UFC middleweight champion, will defend his title against undefeated Russian powerhouse Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 319 in Chicago’s United Centre on Sunday morning (SA time).

The weigh-in on Saturday gave fans a fiery preview of the showdown. UFC president Dana White had to step between the two fighters during their intense face-off. Both men made weight, with Du Plessis hitting the 185-pound limit and Chimaev registering at 183 pounds.

Fighters Exchange Explosive Promises

The war of words only added fuel to the fire. A fired-up Chimaev declared his intentions bluntly: “I am just going out to beat this guy up, he has just one day left (with the title), then he is going to be dead,” Chimaev told UFC commentator Joe Rogan.

The South African champion, unfazed by the boos from the packed United Centre, responded with equal determination:

“He (Chimaev) is an absolute beast of an opponent, but I can tell you this, I am putting this man to sleep. Whether it be on the ground, or whether I knock him out, all of you will be cheering just like every other time.”

Du Plessis also reminded the crowd of their fading jeers during the pre-fight press conference: “Let’s see if they run out of steam as quick as last night.”

What Time to Watch UFC 319 in South Africa

The UFC 319 card is stacked with explosive fights. Fans looking to catch the full spectacle can tune in from 4am (SA time) on Sunday, while those focused only on the middleweight title bout should switch on from around 6am to be safe.

UFC 319 Main Fight Card:

Dricus du Plessis vs Khamzat Chimaev (Middleweight Title)

Lerone Murphy vs Aaron Pico (Featherweight)

Geoff Neal vs Carlos Prates (Welterweight)

Jared Cannonier vs Michael Page (Middleweight)

Tim Elliott vs Kai Asakura (Flyweight)

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