The UFC 319 middleweight title fight between Khamzat Chimaev and Dricus du Plessis has been billed as one of the year’s most electrifying matchups—not just because of the belt on the line, but because of what it could mean for the future of one of MMA’s most polarizing stars. Chimaev, who once carried an aura of invincibility, now faces a career-defining crossroads. And if he fails to dethrone du Plessis, the whispers about his future may grow into shouts: Is this the end of Khamzat Chimaev’s UFC journey?

At first glance, the idea of Chimaev walking away seems premature. He’s just 30, an age many fighters consider their athletic peak. But when you peel back the layers—his turbulent career path, the health setbacks, and his own complicated relationship with fighting—the possibility doesn’t sound so far-fetched.

The Meteoric Rise

Chimaev exploded into the UFC in 2020 and wasted no time making an impression. His dominance was so overwhelming that people compared him to Khabib Nurmagomedov, another fighter who once seemed untouchable. In his first four UFC bouts, Chimaev absorbed only two significant strikes, dismantling opponents with ease and charisma that captured fans worldwide. Dana White himself called him “one of the scariest guys” the sport had ever seen.

Yet, just as his star was rising, COVID-19 nearly derailed everything. A severe case left him hospitalized, struggling with lung issues, and even announcing a brief retirement in 2021. Though he returned, the aura of being “unbreakable” had begun to show cracks—not in the octagon, but in his health and consistency.

Health Issues and Inactivity

Since 2021, the biggest obstacle to Chimaev’s career hasn’t been his opponents—it’s been inactivity. Between illness, visa delays, and matchmaking struggles, he has fought only sparingly. His 2022 war against Gilbert Burns reminded fans of his skill and grit, but he has yet to establish momentum since then.

At middleweight, the picture is even murkier. His lone UFC fight in the division came against Kamaru Usman, a career welterweight stepping up on short notice. Chimaev won, but not without looking human. Against natural middleweights like du Plessis, doubts linger about whether he can dominate in the same way.

UFC 319: A Defining Moment

This fight isn’t just another bout for Chimaev—it’s the defining challenge of his career. Du Plessis, the reigning champion, isn’t just a belt-holder. He’s awkward, powerful, and relentless. Unlike past opponents, he thrives in chaos and has proven his durability. For Chimaev, UFC 319 could either be the moment he cements himself as a two-division threat—or the night his mystique unravels.

Could He Retire After a Loss?

While Chimaev hasn’t explicitly said he’d hang up the gloves if he loses, several reasons make the possibility real:

1. Mental and Emotional Strain: After COVID, Chimaev openly admitted struggling with motivation and mental health. At one point, he even announced retirement before reversing course. Another crushing loss might reignite those doubts.

2. Legacy Concerns: Chimaev has never been content with just winning. He wants to dominate, to be remembered as one of the all-time greats. A decisive loss to du Plessis would puncture that image and could weigh heavier than the prospect of fighting on.

3. Lingering Health Issues: His past lung complications and overall conditioning remain concerns. If his body fails him in a grueling title fight, he may conclude the demands of the sport exceed what he can endure.

4. Personal Commitments: Beyond fighting, Chimaev has often spoken about his faith, family, and life outside the cage. If he feels his UFC mission is over, stepping away to focus on those values is hardly out of character.

The Flip Side: If He Wins

If Chimaev shocks the world and defeats du Plessis, the narrative changes instantly. The doubters are silenced, his mystique is restored, and the UFC has a new star champion. Matchups with Israel Adesanya, Robert Whittaker, or even a welterweight super fight would suddenly be massive possibilities. The stakes, in other words, couldn’t be higher.

The UFC’s Dilemma

For the UFC, Chimaev’s future is crucial. His international fan base stretches across Europe, Russia, and the Middle East, making him a valuable promotional figure. Even if a loss dents his drawing power, his unpredictable personality ensures he remains marketable. Still, the promotion will be watching closely. A convincing defeat followed by hints of retirement could force the UFC to prepare for life without one of its brightest stars.

Final Thoughts

Khamzat Chimaev has always walked a fine line between brilliance and chaos. He is capable of greatness, yet his career has been defined as much by interruptions and uncertainty as by dominance. UFC 319 isn’t just a title fight—it’s the moment that could decide his entire future.

If he wins, the legend grows. If he loses, fans shouldn’t be surprised if he chooses to walk away from the octagon—for good this time.