In the build-up to their highly anticipated clash at UFC 319, middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis and top contender Khamzat Chimaev shared a moment of mutual respect that caught fans’ attention. The two fighters, known for their intense competitive spirit, were spotted shaking hands during an interaction at a hotel ahead of their clash on August 17 at the United Center in Chicago.
Speaking about the encounter, Du Plessis spoke on UFC Embedded, “He was very respectful, came over and said hello. People aren’t paying to see this. It could have gone either way, but now we know.” His comments suggested that, while pre-fight tension often fuels hype, both men were content to keep the face-off professional outside the Octagon.
Chimaev, who has built a reputation for his relentless fighting style and fearlessness, is stepping into one of the biggest opportunities of his career against Du Plessis, who has quickly established himself as one of the UFC’s most dangerous champions. Their brief but cordial meeting offered a rare glimpse of sportsmanship in the often-heated world of MMA.
With the handshake out of the way, the focus now shifts fully to their showdown at UFC 319. Fans can expect the mutual respect to be set aside once the cage door closes, as both fighters aim to cement their legacy in what promises to be a high-stakes, high-intensity middleweight battle in Chicago.
Shocking! Elijah Smith Floors Toshiomi Kazama Unconscious With Nasty Powerbomb Knockout At UFC Vegas 109; Video
UFC Vegas 109 saw one of the most shocking knockouts in recent memory when Elijah Smith defeated Toshiomi Kazama with a brutal powerbomb-style slam. The fight was part of the prelims, and Kazama had tried to lock in a triangle choke. Smith lifted him high and slammed him to the canvas, knocking him unconscious instantly.
The referee was slow to step in, allowing Smith to land two more punches before stopping the fight, which drew criticism from fans and commentators. Medical staff quickly entered the cage, and Kazama was taken to the hospital. Thankfully, scans showed no serious injuries, and he is expected to recover soon.
For Smith, this win improved his UFC record to 2-0 and his overall MMA record to 9-1. The performance showcased his strength and could push him closer to a spot in the bantamweight rankings.
