Khabib Nurmagomedov \ Getty Images

Khabib Analyzes Keys to Beating Dricus at UFC 319

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Prince Horton | Last updated Jul 22, 2025 3:18 PM ET

UFC 319 is set to light up Chicago on August 16 at the United Center, featuring an explosive main event between Dricus Du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev. Both men remain undefeated under the UFC banner, making this matchup one of the most anticipated of the year. Du Plessis brings his unpredictable striking arsenal, while Chimaev is renowned for his dominant grappling and relentless pressure. Adding to the intrigue, Khabib Nurmagomedov has shared an interesting take on what Chimaev should do when the cage door closes.

UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov has weighed in with his thoughts on how this fight could unfold. Speaking via The Hustle Show and translated by MMA Orbit, Khabib shared tactical advice for Chimaev.

‘You can try to force things early, but if you don’t finish him, you’ll burn a lot of energy. You’ll need it in the championship rounds, and Khamzat hasn’t been to the championship rounds,’ Khabib said.

Khabib Nurmagomedov believes Khamzat Chimaev should strike with Dricus Du Plessis at #UFC319.

“You can try to force things early, but if you don’t finish him, you’ll burn a lot of energy. You’ll need it in the championship rounds, and Khamzat hasn’t been to the championship… pic.twitter.com/XzRB75hQne
— MMA Orbit (@mma_orbit) July 22, 2025

He added, ‘Personally, I would advise Khamzat to strike with him. If you put them straight boxing, Khamzat is better.’

The clash promises drama, especially considering their contrasting skill sets. Khabib’s advice to strike is an interesting approach that, if implemented, could make things even more intriguing given Du Plessis’ awkward but dangerous stand-up style. Chimaev thrives on wrestling and submissions, but leaning into boxing could neutralize Du Plessis’ unpredictability while conserving energy for later rounds.

Chimaev enters with three first-round submission wins in his last five fights, including a brutal rear-naked choke that left Robert Whittaker with broken teeth. Du Plessis, meanwhile, has three finishes in his last five—two by knockout and one submission over Israel Adesanya. With fighters and media weighing in from every angle, UFC 319 is shaping up to be a main event fans simply can’t miss.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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