Times have changed.
Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) boogeyman Khamzat Chimaev captured Middleweight gold at UFC 319 last night (Sat., Aug. 16, 2025) by completely dominating former 185-pound kingpin Dricus du Plessis, winning via unanimous decision inside the United Center in Chicago, Illinois.
Several fighters reacted to Chimaev’s title-winning performance
, including a surprising voice of praise: former champion Israel Adesanya, who once dismissed “rat lip” as unimpressive.In a complete 180,
Adesanya now believes the division he once ruled is in very good hands.
“Not what I expected, but I’m glad Khamzat fixed his cardio, or improved his cardio to the point where he can go five rounds and just rag doll people,” Adesanya said on his YouTube channel. “That’s a mess to deal with, because I thought DDP, maybe Round 4, he’d be able to stuff the takedowns because Khamzat would get tired, but he didn’t slow down.
“He slowed down DDP. He slowed him down, which is very impressive because that’s why he finished me in Round 4,” Adesanya added. “I thought, OK, I got him now, but he just finds a way to get his third wind, his fourth wind. But Khamzat made sure he didn’t get the first wind and just smothered him. Khamzat, new middleweight champion, and yeah, the division is in good hands.”
Depending on how active Chimaev can be, the division may be in incredible hands. Already a big superstar, “Borz” now looks nearly unbeatable.
Chimaev built his reputation on relentless activity, and if he has his way, he’ll be back inside the cage as soon as UFC 321 in Abu Dhabi. On top of his skills — and possible quick turnaround — the Middleweight division is stocked with fresh contenders who make for fun stylistic matchups and compelling storylines.
So, yeah — “Borz” is not only great for the division, but it’s safe to say the belt is in capable hands.
For more UFC 319 results, coverage, and highlights click HERE.
