Chimaev (15-0 MMA, 9-0 UFC) joined an exclusive group of names to win undisputed gold with an undefeated record when he earned a METHOD victory over Du Plessis in the headliner at UFC Apex in Chicago. As a result, "The Wolf" starts a new era where, if he can keep healthy and compete regularly, has much potential for excitement.

In a display of dominance that outdid even his path to the title, Chimaev spent five rounds smothering the life out of what was once an impressive champion, winning by unanimous decision (50-44, 50-44, 50-44) to take the UFC middleweight belt.

Khamzat Chimaev was essentially crowned a future UFC champion from the moment he made his promotional debut in 2020. Five years later, he finally made good on those early expectations. Chimaev (15-0) claimed the middleweight championship at UFC 319 on Saturday night inside United Center in a dominant showing over Dricus Du Plessis (23-3).