While Khamzat Chimaev is a highly skilled MMA fighter, a prominent figure outside the UFC`s ranks believes he lacks something Dricus du Plessis possesses in his arsenal.
The middleweight championship will next be contested at UFC 319 on August 16th at the United Center in Chicago.
The main event features Dricus du Plessis defending his title against the undefeated Khamzat Chimaev.
Du Plessis has consistently defied expectations during his UFC run, particularly in the middleweight division where he remains undefeated. One of the world`s other best middleweights predicts this trend will continue at UFC 319.
Johnny Eblen Weighs In on Du Plessis vs. Chimaev at UFC 319
Speaking on MMA Junkie Radio, PFL star and former Bellator middleweight champion Johnny Eblen discussed the upcoming UFC 185-pound title bout.
Eblen, often cited as one of the top fighters competing outside the UFC, highlighted experience as a significant factor favoring Du Plessis.
Eblen dismissed the aura around Chimaev, stating, “He’s not (the boogie man), though. He’s just a guy. He’s just a human. Gilbert (Burns) made him look human, (Kamaru) Usman made him look human, and I think DDP is going to make him look human.”
He added, “Plus DDP is like a big, physical guy. I don’t think Khamzat is just going to manhandle him. Plus, (Chimaev’s) cardio is a little questionable. I don’t think DDP’s cardio is as questionable. He gets tired, but he still has a lot of output.”
Eblen concluded his analysis, saying, “I like DDP’s chances just because the guys he’s fought and the rounds he’s put in. Chimaev hasn’t. Not to say it’s going to be easy, Chimaev is very, very tough, but I think DDP has more, he’s just more of a veteran when it comes to five-round fights, and tough fights, and he’s fought middleweight this whole time. Chimaev is just kind of coming up.”
Eblen Eyes Future Showdowns with Du Plessis and Chimaev
Although currently competing under a different banner, Eblen stated his ambition to be recognized as the world`s best middleweight by potentially facing and defeating both Du Plessis and Chimaev in the future.
With his PFL contract expiring in early 2026, Eblen anticipates the opportunity to pursue a move to the UFC and compete for its middleweight championship.
Despite expressing satisfaction with PFL, ‘Johnny Pressure’ emphasized that true validation as the top middleweight requires facing the highest level of competition.
Given the caliber of fighters he seeks is primarily found in the UFC, Eblen indicated a move to the Octagon is likely once he fulfills his remaining obligations with PFL, including his upcoming fight against Costello van Steenis in Cape Town.
