UFC 319: A Night of Spectacular Finishes

UFC 319, held in Chicago, was a night filled with jaw-dropping moments and record-breaking performances. The event was headlined by a middleweight title fight between Khamzat Chimaev and Dricus Du Plessis, but it was the undercard that truly stole the show.

Lerone Murphy vs. Aaron Pico

Result: Murphy defeats Pico by first-round KO

Grade: A

Lerone Murphy delivered one of the most devastating knockouts of the year with a spinning back elbow that left Aaron Pico unconscious. Murphy's precision and timing were impeccable, and this performance has put him in the conversation for a title shot against Alexander Volkanovski.

Carlos Prates vs. Geoff Neal

Result: Prates defeats Neal by first-round KO

Grade: A-

Carlos Prates bounced back from his first UFC loss in spectacular fashion. His spinning elbow knockout of Geoff Neal was a masterclass in striking. Prates reminded everyone why he is considered one of the most dangerous strikers in the welterweight division.

Khamzat Chimaev vs. Dricus Du Plessis

Result: Chimaev defeats Du Plessis by unanimous decision

Grade: C

Khamzat Chimaev's grappling dominance was on full display as he controlled Du Plessis for the majority of the fight. While impressive, the lack of action and drama made it a less entertaining main event. Nonetheless, Chimaev's performance solidified his place as one of the top middleweights in the UFC.

Other Notable Fights

• Baisangur Susurkaev vs. Eric Nolan: Susurkaev secured a second-round submission victory, showcasing his grappling skills.
• Tim Elliott vs. Kai Asakura: Elliott's experience and grappling proved too much for Asakura, resulting in a second-round submission.
• Joseph Morales vs. Alibi Idiris: Morales pulled off an upset with a second-round triangle choke, ending Idiris' undefeated streak.

Final Thoughts

While the main event lacked excitement, the undercard delivered some of the most memorable moments of the year. The spinning elbow knockouts by Murphy and Prates will be talked about for years to come, and Chimaev's dominant performance has set the stage for an exciting future in the middleweight division.