Former bantamweight champion TJ Dillashaw has made a bold prediction ahead of the highly anticipated UFC 319 title clash between Khamzat Chimaev and reigning middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis. According to Dillashaw, the “Chechen Wolf” has evolved—not just physically, but mentally and strategically—to finally overcome the cardio issues that once held him back.

In a confident statement, Dillashaw shared insights into Chimaev’s training regimen and declared that stamina would be the key to victory in what is being billed as the most important fight of Chimaev’s MMA career.

Cardio: The Silent Battle Chimaev Had to Win First

It’s no secret that cardio has been Chimaev’s Achilles’ heel in the past. Despite his undefeated record, his few fights that went the distance exposed noticeable drops in endurance, especially when unable to finish opponents early. This vulnerability became a hot topic among analysts, fans, and even former champions like Dillashaw.

Now, Dillashaw believes that narrative is changing.

“I introduced him to Sam Calavitta,” Dillashaw revealed in an interview, referring to the renowned conditioning coach behind many elite fighters’ transformations. “Chimaev is doing everything right. I expect him to have better stamina for the title fight, and that will be the key to victory.”

Calavitta, known for his unorthodox but effective training at The Treigning Lab, has previously worked with Dillashaw himself and numerous champions. His involvement signals that Chimaev has taken his preparation to another level—and that he’s serious about the grueling five-round war that awaits.

Strategic Relocation: Chimaev’s Early Move to the U.S. for UFC 319

To ensure the best possible camp, Khamzat Chimaev applied for a U.S. visa early and relocated stateside weeks ahead of the fight. He set up camp at JAXXON Training Center, operated by former UFC legend Quinton “Rampage” Jackson.

This move not only gave Chimaev access to elite coaching and sparring partners, but also put him in close contact with Dillashaw and Calavitta. The strategy? Eliminate any doubts about his ability to go five rounds against a physically imposing and mentally durable fighter like Dricus Du Plessis.

Chimaev has also been reported to be cutting weight more effectively, which Dillashaw credits as another factor in improving the Chechen fighter’s lung capacity and endurance.

“Better weight cuts, better cardio, better training,” Dillashaw said. “This version of Chimaev is dangerous.”

Past Fights Reveal a Pattern of Fatigue in Chimaev’s Game

Looking back, Chimaev’s cardio concerns aren’t without merit. The signs have been there for those paying attention.

In his unanimous decision win over Gilbert Burns at UFC 273, Chimaev started strong but faded in the later rounds, allowing Burns to nearly turn the tide. Despite having early advantages in control and aggression, he couldn’t finish the elite BJJ specialist, resulting in a hard-fought decision that raised questions about his gas tank.

Fast forward to UFC 294, where Chimaev met Kamaru Usman, a former welterweight kingpin. Once again, Chimaev dominated early but couldn’t close the deal. The fight went the distance, and two out of three judges scored the final rounds for Usman, nearly costing Chimaev the bout. He was declared the winner thanks to a technical scoring difference, but many believed Usman had exposed him once more.

These fights created a clear pattern: if Chimaev doesn’t finish early, he struggles to maintain the same pace deep into fights.

That’s a dangerous weakness to carry into the Octagon against a fighter like Du Plessis.

Dricus Du Plessis: A Different Animal

Dricus Du Plessis is not Gilbert Burns. He’s not Kamaru Usman. He’s a true middleweight powerhouse, with a larger frame, unpredictable striking, and elite cardio. What makes Du Plessis particularly dangerous is his ability to keep pushing forward even after three grueling rounds.

Known for his awkward but effective striking style, Du Plessis has developed a reputation for breaking his opponents mentally and physically over time. In fact, cardio is considered one of his greatest weapons, and it’s what makes him a nightmare matchup for anyone with stamina issues.

That’s why Dillashaw and Team Chimaev took no chances.

“You don’t take a fight with a guy like Du Plessis without preparing for five full rounds of war,” Dillashaw emphasized.

Undefeated Streak on the Line: Chimaev Eyes History

Chimaev enters UFC 319 with a perfect 14-0 record, including 8 wins in the UFC. Should he defeat Du Plessis, he’ll become the latest UFC champion to remain undefeated, joining recent champ Ilia Topuria in this rare feat.

Chimaev’s rise has been meteoric, and he’s already beaten names like Li Jingliang, Kevin Holland, Gilbert Burns, and Kamaru Usman. But this title shot represents a new tier—a test not just of skill but of evolution.

For Chimaev, it’s not just about winning—it’s about proving he’s no longer a one-dimensional monster who fades in deep waters. He wants to show he’s a complete fighter, capable of taking a beating and giving one back for all five rounds.

Fan Buzz and Expectations for UFC 319

The MMA world is buzzing. UFC 319 is shaping up to be one of the biggest events of the summer, and the Chimaev vs. Du Plessis title fight is the centerpiece. Fan forums, Reddit threads, and social media feeds are filled with debates:

• Can Chimaev overcome his cardio curse?

• Will Du Plessis outlast him and retain his belt?

• Is Chimaev’s evolution real, or is this just another hype cycle?

What’s clear is that this isn’t just a championship fight—it’s a crossroads moment for both fighters.

Dillashaw’s Stamp of Approval

Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of this buildup is the endorsement from TJ Dillashaw, a man known for meticulous preparation and physical excellence.

“He’s [Chimaev] not the same fighter people saw in 2022 or even 2023,” Dillashaw said. “He’s fixed the flaws. He’s ready. And I truly believe he’s going to shock people at UFC 319.”

Conclusion: Evolution or Illusion?

As the countdown to UFC 319 continues, all signs point to a war inside the Octagon. For Khamzat Chimaev, this fight is more than just a title opportunity—it’s a redemption arc. With the help of veterans like TJ Dillashaw and world-class coaches like Sam Calavitta, he’s engineered a version of himself capable of going five rounds with a beast like Du Plessis.

But Du Plessis isn’t looking to be a stepping stone. He’s looking to cement his reign and prove that raw power and experience beat hype any day of the week.

Come July 27, the world will find out: Has Chimaev truly evolved—or will Du Plessis break another challenger with relentless pressure?

Either way, UFC 319 won’t just be a fight—it will be a turning point in the middleweight division.