The MMA world is in turmoil following UFC 319, where Khamzat Chimaev’s unanimous decision victory over Dricus Du Plessis to claim the middleweight title has been marred by explosive allegations of cheating. In a stunning development, UFC President Dana White has publicly addressed the controversy, delivering a nine-word statement that has sent shockwaves through the sport: “Chimaev cheated, bribed the ref—justice for Du Plessis.” The accusation, made in a fiery video posted on August 16, 2025, after the event at Chicago’s United Center, has intensified scrutiny on Chimaev’s win and raised serious questions about the integrity of the fight, with White vowing to ensure accountability.

The main event saw Chimaev (15-0, 9-0 UFC) dominate Du Plessis (23-3, 9-1 UFC) with a grappling-heavy performance that showcased his relentless takedown ability and suffocating top control. From the opening round, Chimaev overwhelmed the South African champion, securing takedowns within seconds and maintaining pressure through crucifix positions and ground-and-pound. Du Plessis, known for his unorthodox striking and resilience, struggled to mount any offense, spending much of the fight defending from his back. Despite a late flurry in the fifth round, where he briefly threatened a submission, the judges awarded Chimaev a lopsided 50-44 decision, crowning him the new middleweight champion.

However, the victory was immediately overshadowed by allegations of foul play. Reports surfaced post-fight claiming Chimaev’s camp had obtained insider tactical secrets about Du Plessis’ game plan, but White’s statement escalated the controversy to a new level. The UFC president alleged that Chimaev not only cheated through illicit preparation but also bribed a referee to influence the fight’s outcome. While White provided no specific evidence in his brief statement, his words—delivered with characteristic intensity—suggested that the UFC has uncovered troubling information. “We’re digging into this,” White added, promising a thorough investigation to uncover the truth.

The bribery accusation, in particular, has sent shockwaves through the MMA community. Referee integrity is a cornerstone of the sport, and any suggestion of corruption strikes at the heart of the UFC’s credibility. Sources close to the situation claim the allegations center on questionable calls during the fight, including a controversial moment in the third round when Du Plessis appeared to land a significant strike, only for the referee to pause the action for a supposed low blow that replays showed was marginal. Fans on X have pointed to this and other moments, with one user writing, “The ref gave Chimaev every break. Something’s fishy.” Another defended Chimaev, arguing, “DDP was outclassed. Stop crying foul.”

Du Plessis’ camp has expressed outrage but remained restrained in public comments. A source close to Team CIT hinted that the former champion feels betrayed, noting that Chimaev’s uncanny ability to anticipate Du Plessis’ movements suggested more than just superior preparation. “It was like they had our playbook,” the source said. Du Plessis, who entered the fight on an 11-fight win streak with victories over elite names like Israel Adesanya and Robert Whittaker, was visibly frustrated during the bout, unable to execute his usual game plan. The allegations of referee bribery add a new layer of complexity, raising questions about whether the officiating tilted the fight in Chimaev’s favor.

White’s nine-word declaration has put the UFC in a precarious position. The organization has launched a formal investigation, with White stating that independent auditors will review referee communications and financial records tied to Chimaev’s camp. If substantiated, the allegations could lead to severe consequences, including fines, suspensions, or even the stripping of Chimaev’s title. Such a move would be unprecedented in recent UFC history and could reshape the middleweight division. White’s call for justice has also fueled speculation about a potential rematch, with fans clamoring for Du Plessis to get a fair shot at reclaiming his belt.

Chimaev’s team has vehemently denied the accusations. In a brief statement, his manager dismissed the claims as “baseless excuses from a losing team,” asserting that Chimaev’s preparation relied solely on legal scouting and his performance was a result of skill. Chimaev himself, speaking post-fight, focused on his victory, saying, “I came to fight, and I won.” However, the mounting controversy, amplified by White’s public stance, has put Chimaev’s reputation under intense scrutiny. Some fans on X continue to support him, with one writing, “Chimaev’s a beast. No ref needed to win that.” Others, however, demand accountability, with posts like, “If Dana’s right, Chimaev’s done.”

The fallout from UFC 319 has shifted attention from Chimaev’s in-cage dominance to the integrity of the sport itself. White’s bold statement has rallied Du Plessis’ supporters, who see it as a commitment to fairness, while others question whether the accusations are being used to set up a lucrative rematch. The investigation’s outcome will be pivotal, not only for the fighters involved but for the UFC’s reputation. For now, Du Plessis awaits his chance at redemption, while Chimaev faces the challenge of defending his title amid a growing storm. The MMA world watches closely, bracing for a resolution that could redefine the sport’s standards of fairness.