Overview

• Dricus du Plessis ramped up UFC 319 promotions in Chicago by throwing out the first pitch at Wrigley Field and highlighting his unorthodox fighting style as his competitive edge.
• Khamzat Chimaev told ESPN MMA he isn’t retiring after UFC 319, citing financial goals and outlining plans to pursue championships in multiple weight classes.
• Chimaev enlisted former champion TJ Dillashaw’s conditioning coach Sam Calavitta to boost his gas tank, sparking debate among experts—including Chael Sonnen and Michael Bisping—on his ability to sustain early pressure through five rounds.
• Belal Muhammad predicted Chimaev could outstrike du Plessis in a stand-up contest, and Joe Rogan described his grappling as “magnitudes greater” than any other middleweight.
• A FOX 32 Chicago reporter’s live mispronunciation of his name as “Hazmat” Chimaev highlighted the mainstream media spotlight surrounding the August 16 main event.