Khamzat Chimaev Boldly Laughs Off Title Shot Debate Among Contenders

Newly crowned middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev is ready to fight anyone, including Nassourdine Imavov and Reinier de Ridder.

Khamzat Chimaev Boldly Laughs Off Title Shot Debate Among Contenders

Khamzat Chimaev doesn't care whether his next opponent is Nassourdine Imavov or Reinier de Ridder (via X)

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Khamzat Chimaev captured the UFC middleweight title at UFC 319 last month after defeating Dricus Du Plessis decisively. Following his victory, the dominant fighter ‘Borz’ openly stated he was willing to face any opponent the UFC picks next. This declaration immediately attracted top contenders like Nassourdine Imavov and Reinier de Ridder, both eager to secure the title shot.

At UFC Paris, Imavov defeated Caio Borralho via unanimous decision, and immediately called out Khamzat Chimaev to stake his next contender claim. Chimaev quickly responded on social media, acknowledging Imavov’s credentials as a legitimate contender while expressing readiness to face him. 

However, the situation angered de Ridder, who believes one more win will rightfully secure him a future title shot opportunity. “ Nah, (expletive) off, I’m next,” said the former One FC champion while dismissing Imavov. As the debate heated up online, Chimaev shared his opinion, claiming he was prepared to fight both Imavov and ‘RDR’ soon.

Doesn’t matter same same.

Khamzat Chimaev via Instagram 

Reinier de Ridder is set to face Braden Allen in the UFC Vancouver main event after Anthony Hernandez withdrew due to injury. Known for his dominant grappling, RDR is considered among the most dangerous middleweights and could realistically pose problems for Chimaev.

The Dutchman was highly accomplished in his ONE FC days and also won both the middleweight and light heavyweight championships. Gilbert Burns, who once pushed Chimaev to the absolute limit, expressed confidence that de Ridder’s skills could overcome the feared champion.

Nassourdine Imavov possesses strong wrestling skills and carries confidence that he has what it takes to dethrone Chimaev. Although he shares no personal rivalry with Chimaev, the French fighter is hungry for success and eager to secure the middleweight championship.

Former champion Israel Adesanya has expressed belief that the Frenchman has the ability to deliver a tough fight against Chimaev. Apart from both these fighters, there are other names such as Sean Strickland, who has a nasty rivalry with the new champ. Nevertheless, the American fighter will need to get back to the win column before getting another title shot. 

Popular middleweight Paulo Costa had also called out Chimaev, but will fight someone else at the moment to garner momentum. As such, it would be interesting to see who UFC sees as the best opponent to share the Octagon with Chimaev next. Chances are, it is one of RDR or Imavov that will receive the next title shot.

Former champion doesn’t think Khamzat Chimaev 

Khamzat Chimaev’s dominant UFC reign has been marked by relentless pressure and unmatched grappling skills that overwhelm opponents. Throughout his run, Chimaev showcased the ability to dismantle challengers with his incredible wrestling skills. Against Dricus Du Plessis, the story remained identical, as Chimaev imposed his wrestling and neutralized the South African’s unorthodox fighting style.

Khamzat Chimaev dominates Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 319
Khamzat Chimaev dominates Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 319 (via X)

For twenty-one grueling minutes, Chimaev maintained top control, smothered Du Plessis with transitions, and eliminated any opportunity for offense. The South African star was left helpless, and his coach blamed the referee and got slammed by critics. Former champion Robert Whittaker recently talked about Chimaev and gave his honest opinion on who can beat the champion. 

I don’t know how anyone beats Khamzat at the moment. His wrestling is so high-level. I feel like the way to beat Khamzat is with high-level jiu-jitsu. If Imavov has high-level back jiu-jitsu, then maybe we’ll see something. It’s a fight; anything can happen—maybe Chimaev dives into a knee or foot. 

Robert Whittaker via MMA Arcade 

Whittaker faced Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 308 last year, suffering a first-round submission loss and sustaining a serious jaw injury. Despite Chimaev’s dominance, following UFC 319, criticism arose as many fans labeled the fight boring due to the lack of a finish.

Some complained the champion’s inability to secure a decisive ending diminished excitement, contrasting with his earlier explosive performances that built his reputation. It now remains intriguing whether Chimaev can rediscover his past energy and aggression when he steps into his next title defense.

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