Undefeated middleweight sensation Khamzat Chimaev has identified the sole method by which his long-standing opponent, Alex Pereira, could potentially overcome him in their anticipated Octagon encounter.
Fresh off his middleweight title win, Khamzat Chimaev is already eyeing a second UFC championship, with a clash against Alex Pereira firmly in his sights. Following his rapid 80-second knockout victory over Magomed Ankalaev, Chimaev eagerly anticipates facing the formidable Brazilian, expressing strong confidence in his ability to decipher Pereira`s fighting style.
Analyzing the potential matchup, Chimaev asserted that a single, specific scenario exists where Pereira might defeat him and hand him his first professional loss.
Khamzat Chimaev Cautious of Alex Pereira’s Knockout Power
Chimaev, confident in his versatility, plans to eventually ascend to the light heavyweight division. Having previously competed at welterweight before earning gold at middleweight, Chimaev identifies only one significant concern regarding a potential bout with Pereira: his immense power.
“Naturally, I’m eager to contend for a second belt,” Chimaev shared with Arslanbek Badaev. “It’s well-known that the current 205-pound champion, Alex Pereira, presents a favorable matchup for me—unless I become careless in a striking exchange.”
“People speak of his immense power,” Chimaev remarked about ‘Poatan’. “However, I’ve never been outmatched in terms of strength. He also competed at 185 pounds before moving to 205. Therefore, I’m interested in fighting at light heavyweight.”
Dana White Outlines Middleweight Future for Khamzat Chimaev
While UFC CEO Dana White has historically supported fighters moving between weight classes, he has recently mandated that champions must vacate their current title before attempting to claim another in a different division.
After securing the middleweight title in August with a commanding victory over Dricus du Plessis, Chimaev now faces a multitude of challengers within the division. Consequently, White is keen on arranging bouts for Chimaev against various top contenders, including the victor of this weekend’s UFC Vancouver main event.