Khamzat Chimaev, a Chechen-born fighter representing the United Arab Emirates, captured the UFC middleweight title by defeating South Africa’s Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 319 in Chicago.

The 31-year-old Chimaev secured victory via unanimous decision, with all three judges scoring the bout 50–44 in his favor.

This marks Chimaev’s 15th professional MMA win and his 9th consecutive victory in the UFC, maintaining his undefeated record.

Meanwhile, Du Plessis suffered the third loss of his career, now holding a 23–3 record. It was his first defeat since 2018.