Overview
UFC 319 takes place this Saturday, August 16, at Chicago’s United Center, headlined by a middleweight title clash with major implications. Undefeated challenger Khamzat Chimaev steps in against reigning champion Dricus Du Plessis in a power-versus-poise showdown. The co-main event features highly touted newcomer Aaron Pico facing seasoned contender Lerone Murphy in a classic hype-versus-experience matchup.
The rest of the card is stacked with intriguing bouts, including Geoff Neal against Carlos Prates, Jared Cannonier versus Michael Page, and Kai Asakura meeting Tim Elliott. With title stakes, breakout potential, and contrasting styles, this event offers plenty for fans and bettors to watch.
Main Event: Khamzat Chimaev vs Dricus Du Plessis (Middleweight Title)
Odds (FanDuel): Chimaev (-235) vs Du Plessis (+180)
Chimaev enters unbeaten at 14–0, blending relentless wrestling with a dangerous submission game. He thrives by overwhelming opponents early and dictating the pace on the mat, though his ability to sustain that pressure over five rounds remains a question. A disciplined approach that mixes ground-and-pound with positional control gives him a clear path to victory.
Du Plessis counters with championship experience, unorthodox striking, and proven finishing instincts. His ability to disrupt Chimaev’s rhythm with defensive wrestling and unpredictable offense could create openings. However, if Chimaev maintains patience and controls the octagon, the champion may be forced into costly mistakes.
Best Bet: Khamzat Chimaev by Submission (+150)
Co-Main Event: Aaron Pico vs Lerone Murphy (Featherweight)
Odds (FanDuel): Pico (-186) vs Murphy (+144)
Pico arrives with buzz, combining wrestling and knockout power, but this will be his first UFC appearance. Murphy, undefeated at 16–0–1, brings the advantage of octagon experience, poise under pressure, and an ability to adjust mid-fight.
Expect Pico to push the pace early, but Murphy’s composure and calculated counters could shift momentum as the rounds progress. Against a debuting fighter, the veteran’s steadiness offers strong value.
Best Bet: Lerone Murphy by Points (+250)
Geoff Neal vs Carlos Prates (Welterweight)
Odds (FanDuel): Neal (+200) vs Prates (-265)
Neal boasts sharp boxing and fight-ending power, while Prates aims to rebound from a loss to Ian Machado Garry. Known for his aggressive pace and knockout capability, Prates is a threat to finish at any moment. Neal can land big shots, but Prates’ activity and pressure could create decisive opportunities.
Best Bet: Carlos Prates by KO/TKO (+115)
Jared Cannonier vs Michael Page (Middleweight)
Odds (FanDuel): Cannonier (+158) vs Page (-205)
Cannonier brings knockout power and a grinding clinch game, seeking to bounce back from a tough 2024. Page offers a flashy, movement-based striking style and thrives at long range. Cannonier’s key will be cutting off the cage and forcing exchanges inside, where his power can make the difference.
Best Bet: Cannonier Moneyline (+158)
Tim Elliott vs Kai Asakura (Flyweight)
Odds (FanDuel): Elliott (+235) vs Asakura (-320)
Asakura, a former RIZIN Bantamweight Champion, combines speed with knockout power. Elliott’s unorthodox style and wrestling give him upset potential, but at 38, questions about endurance loom large. Asakura’s youth and explosiveness may ultimately overwhelm the veteran.
Best Bet: Asakura by KO/TKO (+180)
Parting Shot
UFC 319 offers a mix of title drama, fresh talent, and stylistic variety. From proven champions to hungry newcomers, every fight brings the potential for highlight-reel finishes or hard-fought decisions. Whether you are tuning in for the belt, the underdogs, or the prospect debuts, this is a card with something for every fight fan.
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