“It’s bullsh**” – Brendan Allen exposes Khamzat Chimaev’s middleweight rankings after beating former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman

Brendan Allen expressed his disappointment after Khamzat Chimaev ranked eighth in the middleweight division, even though he won only one fight.


“It’s bullsh**” – Brendan Allen exposes Khamzat Chimaev’s middleweight rankings after beating former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman

Brendan Allen is disappointed in UFC ranking system after Khamzat Chimaev ranks in at No. 8 (via Imago/ YouTube)

Brendan Allen has expressed his disappointment with the UFC’s decision to rank Khamzat Chimaev in the middleweight division. This comes after Chimaev’s victory over former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman at UFC 294. The bout, which was thought to be a middleweight championship eliminator, was won by Chimaev by majority decision.

Despite his victory, Allen criticized the UFC ranking system. He expressed doubt about Khamzat Chimaev’s inclusion in the Top 10 in the middleweight class. He reiterated that he had never faced a legitimate 185-pounder, let alone a ranked one. This is what he had to say:

I’m just going to be honest. “It’s bullsh*t. This guy hasn’t beat an ‘85er. He hasn’t beat an ‘85er, especially a ranked ‘85er. He beat the No. 1 170 guy. Cool. Congratulations. I think everyone can agree a five-round fight, Kamaru wins and that was off the couch. Keep him at ‘70 and rank him No. 1, do that. This is a different thing.
Brendan Allen at the UFC Vegas 82 Media Day
YouTube video

The middleweight fighter said that the UFC rankings are impacted by things other than skill and that the system is political. Brendan Allen suggested that rankings should be based on a fighter’s performance and activity. He pointed out that numerous fighters in the Top 15 are not deserving of rankings due to inactivity.

FS Video

Brendan Allen’s criticism illuminates the apparent flaws in the UFC’s ranking system. His outspoken attitude adds to the current discussion about the authenticity and honesty of UFC fighter rankings.

Sean Strickland proclaims Khamzat Chimaev as a weaker opponent than Dricus Du Plessis

Sean Strickland voiced his belief that Dricus Du Plessis will be a more serious test than Khamzat Chimaev. This statement comes in preparation for his championship defense at UFC 297 on January 20, 2024.

Strickland rose to prominence with his unanimous decision shock win over two-time middleweight champion Israel Adesanya at UFC 293. This performance demonstrated his defensive brilliance and established him as a great 185-pound fighter.

Sean Strickland thinks Dricus Du Plessis will be a much tougher opponent that Khamzat Chimaev
Sean Strickland thinks Dricus Du Plessis will be a much tougher opponent than Khamzat Chimaev (via Imago/ Business Insider India/UFC.com)

Despite Chimaev’s recent victory over former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman, Strickland believes he is unworthy of a championship opportunity. Chimaev’s possible championship opportunity, according to Strickland, is due to his ability to sell more tickets. This is what he said:

I think Dricus is like so awkward he’s good. Where it’s like, you know, I’m a million times better than him, I spar guys he’s fought, I know who he is. But he’s so awkward he’s good. It’s gonna be a f***ing war. He’ll be a tougher fight than Chimaev.
Sean Strickland via his YouTube channel

Sean Strickland was happy with the UFC’s decision to pit him against Du Plessis for the championship defense. The MMA community will be watching to see if Strickland can successfully defend his middleweight championship. This will solidify his place as a strong force in the division.

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