Khamzat Chimaev Challenges Alex Pereira’s Star Power: “I Get More Views Than His Fights”

UFC middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev calls out Alex Pereira for declining his callout through a heated rant.

Khamzat Chimaev Challenges Alex Pereira’s Star Power: “I Get More Views Than His Fights”

Khamzat Chimaev calls out Alex Pereira (via MMA Fighting, Playoffs)

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Khamzat Chimaev is well-known for his trash talk and for confronting any doubters head-on. Recently, he directed his attention at light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira, expressing frustration over what he perceived as the Brazilian avoiding a potential matchup. The comments underscore Chimaev’s reputation for aggressive promotion and relentless pursuit of high-profile fights.

Chimaev captured the middleweight belt at UFC 319 by dominating Dricus Du Plessis in one of the most one-sided performances in recent UFC history. Around the same time, Pereira regained his light heavyweight title by knocking out Magomed Ankalaev in their rematch at UFC 320. Both fighters’ recent victories solidified their status as champions in their respective divisions.

Following UFC 320, Chimaev quickly called out Pereira for a potential champion-versus-champion superfight. ‘Poatan’,however, responded by suggesting a grappling match between the two for charity, rather than a full MMA bout. The Chechen champion has since publicly criticized Pereira’s counteroffer by emphasizing his desire for a competitive showdown inside the octagon.

Good fight for me, everyone knows that. UFC knows that, but UFC doesn’t want to give this guy to me. And Pereira said, ‘Oh, I’ll come to you, jiu-jitsu, wrestling, grappling,‘ I don’t know what. Grappling, jiu-jitsu, it’s not our job. Our job is UFC. UFC fighters. He said he can fight with du Plessis. He accepted the fight, but now he’s like, ‘Oh, it’s Khamzat, not good fight for me.’ And he’s saying he’s more famous than me, that’s why I’m using his name., I don’t think this guy more famous than me

Khamzat Chimaev via ESPN MMA

Pereira has firmly established himself as a dominant force at light heavyweight, with title fights against Jiri Prochazka and Khalil Rountree Jr. His performances have reinforced his position at the top of the division and his championship status. ‘Borz’ has responded by announcing plans to bulk up and move to 205 pounds. The move highlights his intention to directly challenge Pereira in the higher weight class.

Looking ahead, Pereira is reportedly planning a move to the heavyweight division in pursuit of three-division glory. Following his recent title win, he has called out former champion Jon Jones, setting up another high-profile clash in the UFC landscape. These developments highlight the ambitions of both fighters beyond their current divisions.

With Chimaev sidelined until mid-2026 due to minor foot surgery and Ramadan, the stakes for a potential clash with Pereira continue to grow. He has not yet defended his middleweight belt, and a superfight could further stall competition at 185 pounds and affect other contenders. Alex Pereira’s dominance and Khamzat Chimaev’s eventual return could have major implications across multiple divisions.

Khamzat Chimaev explains why he was wrestling Jon Jones on the streets of Chechenya

Khamzat Chimaev and Jon Jones have long shared mutual respect, with Jones commending Chimaev’s rapid rise through the UFC ranks. Chimaev has repeatedly referred to Jones as one of the greatest fighters of all time, highlighting the admiration between the two. Their relationship reflects a mix of professional respect and personal camaraderie. Both fighters have acknowledged each other’s accomplishments within the sport.

Jon Jones with Khamzat Chimaev
Jon Jones with Khamzat Chimaev (via X)

Jones recently visited Chimaev’s hometown of Chechnya, where he was seen enjoying the local cuisine and spending time with him. A video from the visit quickly went viral and drew widespread attention online showed the two casually grappling with each other on the streets in a playful manner. This recently prompted ‘Borz’ to address the encounter publicly and provide context.

People are posting this wrestling…I’m always respectful to my guests, it wasn’t me that was trying to take him down, he started first. Then it slowly becomes wrestling and it was funny. But it wasn’t real wrestling. People are saying I took him down, he liked it. He was there shooting something and having a good time.

Khamzat Chimaev via ESPN MMA

During the playful session, Chimaev, a middleweight, was able to take down Jones, who last competed as a heavyweight. Despite the apparent display of grappling skill, the interaction was entirely friendly and informal. The viral clip underscored Chimaev’s instincts and athleticism while reinforcing the mutual respect between the two athletes. It served as a lighthearted moment.

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