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Khamzat Chimaev’s friend who lost to Dricus du Plessis makes bold UFC 319 prediction
David Yeazell-Imagn Images

Chicago is about to host one of the year’s most anticipated fights this Saturday night.

Khamzat Chimaev, who is preparing for his first UFC title shot on August 16, has reportedly been dominating his training sessions lately.

Du Plessis has not shown much concern over the talk surrounding Chimaev. Instead, he is planning to test Chimaev’s conditioning, which some believe might be a weak spot in his game.

Darren Till is well positioned to break down this fight, as someone who has spent time with both men. He was recently asked for his take on how the bout could play out, and gave his thoughts without holding back.

Darren Till predicts Khamzat Chimaev will finish Dricus du Plessis before the championship rounds

Dricus du Plessis was the last opponent Darren Till faced in the UFC, with their fight taking place at UFC 282 in December 2022.

While Du Plessis dominated early, Till managed to rally in the second round before being submitted in the third.

Towards the end of his career, ‘The Gorilla’ developed a close friendship with Chimaev and revealed they still keep in touch.

During his recent appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show, Till shared his thoughts on the fight, drawing from his experience with both men.

He pointed out that while some may overlook DDP, one of his biggest strengths is how well his team prepares him for each fight.

But even with this advantage, Till is still backing Chimaev to win, suggesting it could come via striking. 

“That’s ultimately sometimes what makes the difference in these fights. Dricus has got a hell of a chance but you know me, I’m team Khamzat and I’ve trained with him.

“I don’t see past three rounds with Khamzat. I reckon he can knock him out on the feet as well, I really do. He’s got a solid left hand. I’ve been on the receiving end a few times… I’m third round Khamzat.”

Darren Till wanted to be involved in Khamzat Chimaev’s UFC 319 camp

Darren Till had hoped to link up with Khamzat Chimaev ahead of UFC 319, but it looks like scheduling did not quite work out for the two of them.

Having previously shared the Octagon with Dricus du Plessis, Till would have brought first-hand experience and some inside knowledge to help Chimaev’s preparations.

Back in May, Till spoke to Bloody Elbow about how Chimaev had reached out to him, expressing his interest in getting back together with ‘Borz’ for training.

“He asked me to come over and help with the striking stuff, so I said I would. If the stars align for that I’d love to get over for that.”

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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