The UFC 319 event in Chicago left fans on the edge of their seats, with stellar performances and results that promise to reshape the landscape of several divisions. At Alofoke Deportes, we analyze the possible routes that the protagonists of the night could take.
Khamzat Chimaev: Title Defense or New Challenges?
Khamzat Chimaev, after a dominant victory over Dricus Du Plessis, rose as the new middleweight champion. The question now is: will he defend his title at 185 pounds or seek new horizons in another category?Khamzat Chimaev, a la izquierda, superó a Dricus Du Plessis, a la derecha, para ganar el campeonato de peso mediano en el UFC 319.Chimaev has expressed his interest in exploring other divisions. One possibility would be to drop to 170 pounds to face prominent figures in welterweight, such as Islam Makhachev or Jack Della Maddalena. This decision could be crucial, as weight cutting becomes more complicated over time.
Chimaev has the potential to make a mark on the sport.
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Another, more likely, option would be a title defense against the winner of the fight between Nassourdine Imavov and Caio Borralho, scheduled for September in Paris. This fight would allow the middleweight division to remain active.
Dricus Du Plessis: What Does the Future Hold?
Despite the defeat, Du Plessis remains a relevant contender in the middleweight division. A fight against the loser of the Imavov vs. Borralho matchup could be the next step for the South African fighter.
A “wild card” in this equation could be Reinier de Ridder, who has performed excellently in his recent fights in the UFC. However, the organization will likely rely on the rankings to determine the next matchups.
Lerone Murphy: One Step Away from the Championship?
Lerone Murphy surprised everyone with a spectacular knockout over Aaron Pico in the co-main event. This victory could lead him to a featherweight title opportunity.¿Podría una oportunidad por el campeonato ser lo siguiente para Lerone Murphy después de noquear a Aaron Pico en el UFC 319?The most likely option would be a fight with Alexander Volkanovski, the current champion. Murphy, although he would be the “underdog”, has proven to be a complete fighter with great finishing power.
The other possibility, although less likely, would be a fight against Yair Rodriguez.
Michael Page vs. Carlos Prates: A Must-See Duel
In the welterweight division, a Michael Page vs. Carlos Prates matchup would be a dream fight for fans. The combination of Page’s unorthodox style and Prates’ knockout power promises a guaranteed spectacle.
The winner of this fight could have the opportunity to face Leon Edwards, a wish expressed by both fighters.
Baisangur Susurkaev: Looking to Boost His Career
For Baisangur Susurkaev, a fight against Bryan Battle could be the next step. Battle, who missed weight in his last fight, could be the “villain” in this narrative, allowing Susurkaev to position himself as the “hero”.
Nursulton Ruziboev could be another option for Susurkaev, giving him a chance to prove himself against an opponent with great potential.
