Who Will Shock the World at UFC 319? Key Fighters to Watch

By Ali Hammad August 15, 2025 06:32

UFC 319 is set to ignite the mixed martial arts world on August 16, 2025, with a stacked fight card at the United Center in Chicago. Among the many electrifying matchups, several fighters stand out as potential shockers who could upend expectations and leave fans and pundits in awe. With title implications and career-defining moments on the line, here are the key fighters to watch and why they might just shock the world.

At the forefront is the highly anticipated Middleweight Championship clash between reigning champion Dricus du Plessis and the undefeated contender Khamzat Chimaev. Du Plessis, who has rapidly ascended through the ranks with a 23-2 professional record, entered the UFC as an underdog but has silenced critics by defeating former titleholders Robert Whittaker and Israel Adesanya. “I’m here to prove I belong among the best,” du Plessis said. Opposite him stands Chimaev, often touted as the sport’s next superstar with a 14-0 record, whose combination of relentless wrestling and striking has overwhelmed opponents. However, his climb has been delayed by injuries and weight cut struggles. The winner of this battle will not only claim the belt but potentially alter the middleweight division's landscape for years.

While the main event garners most attention, the co-main fight between featherweights Lerone Murphy and Aaron Pico serves as a must-watch. Pico, known for his ferocious striking and wrestling pedigree, makes his UFC debut after revitalizing his career post-Bellator challenges. Murphy, unbeaten at 16-0-1, is eager to maintain his rising trajectory. “This is my moment,” Pico declared, “and I’m ready to make a statement.” Should he score an upset, it could immediately vault him into title contention.

Another intriguing matchup is in the welterweight division, featuring Geoff Neal against Carlos Prates. Neal, with a 16-6 record, delivers power and experience, but Prates brings unpredictability with his dynamic skill set. This fight could serve as a springboard for the victor toward the division’s elite.

Middleweight fans will also have their eyes on Jared Cannonier facing Michael ‘Venom’ Page, who is making one of his most anticipated forays into the UFC’s competitive landscape. Cannonier’s aggressive style contrasts with Page’s unorthodox striking, promising an exciting clash that could yield a surprise winner.

Flyweight’s Tim Elliott versus Japan’s Kai Asakura rounds out a compelling fight, with Elliott renowned for his tenacity and Asakura bringing knockout power. Similarly, the women’s strawweight bout between Jéssica Andrade and Loopy Godinez has all the makings of an upset, with Andrade’s veteran savvy pitted against Godinez’s rising skills.

Several undercard fighters also have the potential to shock. Karine Silva’s bout against Dione Barbosa, and the lightweight clash between Edson Barboza and Drakkar Klose, both feature fighters with finishing capabilities that could turn the fight in any moment.

One factor fueling the anticipation is the event’s location in Chicago, a city known for passionate fight fans whose energy often inspires surprising performances. “The crowd here is electric. It pushes fighters beyond their limits,” noted a UFC analyst.

In sum, UFC 319 showcases a blend of established champions, emerging contenders, and hungry newcomers. While du Plessis and Chimaev headline with a title on the line, the event's depth means fans should expect surprises throughout the card. In the unpredictable arena of mixed martial arts, it’s anyone’s night.

As the bell rings on August 16, will an underdog shock the world, or will champions solidify their legacy? UFC 319 promises nothing less than explosive action and unforgettable moments. Fans should prepare for a night where history could be rewritten.