Beneil Dariush Warns Alex Pereira on Taking Khamzat Chimaev Fight: “Ride Off Into Sunset”

Lightweight contender Beneil Dariush warns Alex Pereira of the dangers of facing Khamzat Chimaev at light heavyweight.

Beneil Dariush Warns Alex Pereira on Taking Khamzat Chimaev Fight: “Ride Off Into Sunset”

Beneil Dariush warns Alex Pereira about a potential Khamzat Chimaev superfight (via MMA Fighting, Reddit)

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In the ever-evolving landscape of mixed martial arts, hypothetical matchups between top-tier fighters often spark widespread debate. One such potential clash that continues to intrigue fans and analysts alike is a light heavyweight meeting between Khamzat Chimaev and Alex Pereira. Lightweight contender Beneil Dariush recently spoke out on the potential matchup.

Pereira recently made waves at UFC 320 when he knocked out Magomed Ankalaev in their rematch to win a UFC championship for the third time. The Brazilian superstar has proven again and again to take on challenges, whether it be short-notice bouts or title defences against the top contenders of the division. Even though he made his UFC debut as late as 2021, Pereira has been in eight title fights.

Chimaev has built his reputation as one of the UFC’s most dominant grapplers and aggressive finishers. Competing across multiple weight classes, he has showcased grappling dominance, which earned him the middleweight championship at UFC 319. However, after Pereira’s win at UFC 320, Chimaev expressed his wish to fight the Brazilian. Dariush recently spoke about how the potential bout would play out.

I don’t want Pereira to get mauled by Khamzat, I’m just being honest. I just want to see Pereira ride off into the sunset with a big fight and a big paycheck. The way Khamzat wrestles is very different from the way Ankalaev wrestles.

Beneil Dariush via Helen Yee Sports

The stylistic matchup between Chimaev and Pereira would present a classic striker-versus-grappler dynamic. Pereira’s timing and knockout ability make him a dangerous opponent at distance, while Chimaev’s grappling and pressure could potentially neutralize those strengths. Analysts often highlight how Pereira’s takedown defense and awareness would be key factors in determining the outcome.

This was not the first time ‘Poatan’ and ‘Borz’ have crossed paths. In late 2022, Pereira claimed that Chimaev turned down a proposed “mega fight” in Brazil shortly after Pereira became middleweight champion. The matchup was discussed for UFC Rio, but Chimaev allegedly declined. Chimaev quickly denied the claim, insisting he was open to facing Pereira at the time.

While both fighters are currently competing in different divisions, their names often intersect in discussions about potential super fights. Khamzat Chimaev’s growing profile and Alex Pereira’s continued dominance make the idea of this matchup increasingly plausible, provided both maintain their winning streaks and align in weight class ambitions.

Alex Pereira replies to Khamzat Chimaev’s callout

Following his dominant victory at UFC 320, Alex Pereira has made it clear that his sights are set on a new challenge: the heavyweight division. Having already captured titles at both middleweight and light heavyweight, Pereira now aims to make history by becoming a three-division UFC champion. His success across multiple weight classes has already cemented his legacy as one of the most accomplished athletes.

Alex Pereira denies Khamzat Chimaev
Alex Pereira denies Khamzat Chimaev (via Bloody Elbow)

In the aftermath of his latest win, Pereira’s name once again became linked to Khamzat Chimaev, who called him out shortly after the event. However, Pereira’s attention seemed focused on pursuing a larger goal rather than revisiting a fight that had been discussed for years but never materialized. ‘Poatan’ respectfully declined Chimaev’s offer at the UFC 320 post fight press conference

Thanks for congratulating me, but all I want is a superfight. I want a fight at heavyweight.

Alex Pereira via UFC 320 post fight presser

Pereira’s pursuit of heavyweight gold represents the next chapter in his rise through the ranks. A potential third championship would not only make UFC history but also re-define the limits of what a modern MMA fighter can achieve. Whether or not a bout with Khamzat Chimaev ever comes to fruition, Alex Pereira’s determination to chase new milestones ensures his greatness.

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