Fresh off his dominant unanimous decision victory over Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 319 in Chicago newly crowned middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev displayed his trademark humor when discussing his performance in the post-match interviews. Despite delivering one of the most lopsided title match performances in recent memory Chimaev jokingly suggested he didn’t deserve his recently awarded jiu-jitsu black belt after failing to finish the South African champion.
The Chechen-born MMA star completely dominated Du Plessis across five rounds landing a UFC record 529 total strikes while controlling his opponent for over 21 minutes. Chimaev secured 12 takedowns and repeatedly found himself in dominant positions including multiple crucifixes that left Du Plessis virtually defenseless. However it was his inability to secure a submission that prompted his self-deprecating commentary.
“I went under last 30 seconds try to finish him. I’ve heard my corner says 30 seconds that means to go to meet him. So I tried but make mistake,” Chimaev explained to reporters. “So thankful for my coach. He gives the black belt, but I was like when I went under [censored] I don’t have a black belt now.”
The timing of this joke was particularly amusing given that Chimaev had just announced receiving his jiu-jitsu black belt following the victory. His coach had awarded him the prestigious rank after witnessing his grappling dominance throughout the match yet Chimaev’s perfectionist mentality led him to question whether he truly deserved it after failing to capitalize on a late submission attempt.
Throughout the contest Chimaev showcased why he’s considered one of the most complete athletes in the sport. He repeatedly took Du Plessis down at will smothered him with ground control and landed consistent strikes from dominant positions. The South African champion who had successfully defended his title twice since winning it from Sean Strickland earlier in 2024 appeared helpless against Chimaev’s relentless wrestling pressure.
When asked about his dominant performance and whether it surprised him that he couldn’t finish Du Plessis Chimaev remained characteristically nonchalant.
“No, just was working on him. So I had some cool time on that there. So just spoke with him, spoke with his coach middle of the match was happy,”
he said revealing he was even having conversations during the bout.
The victory silenced critics who had questioned Chimaev’s cardio and ability to maintain his pace over five rounds. His performance proved he could not only go the distance but dominate every minute of a championship match. Despite his joking about the black belt Chimaev’s grappling display was nothing short of masterful leaving little doubt about his credentials as the division’s new champion.
