Undefeated middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev has asserted that should he face long-standing rival Alex Pereira in the Octagon, there is only one viable path for the Brazilian to secure a victory. Fresh off his middleweight title coronation, Chimaev is already looking to claim a second UFC championship, with Alex Pereira squarely in his sights. Chimaev remains highly confident in his ability to overcome the challenges Pereira presents. Analyzing the prospective matchup, Chimaev stated that a single scenario exists where Pereira could potentially halt his unbeaten record and hand him his first professional defeat.
Chimaev Identifies Pereira`s Knockout Power as Sole Threat
While displaying confidence in his ability to transition between weight classes, Chimaev has expressed a long-term goal of competing at light heavyweight. Having previously fought at welterweight before earning the middleweight title, Chimaev highlights just one concern regarding a potential bout with Pereira: his immense power. “Certainly, I would relish the opportunity to contend for a second belt,” Chimaev stated in an interview with Arslanbek Badaev. “It’s widely known that Alex Pereira, the current 205 lbs champion, poses a very favorable matchup for me – provided I don`t become careless in a striking exchange.”
Chimaev acknowledged Pereira, also known as ‘Poatan’, for his reputation. “They speak of him having significant power,” he noted. “However, I have never been outmatched in terms of strength or striking force. He, too, competed at 185 pounds before ascending to 205 pounds, which further solidifies my desire to fight at light heavyweight.”
Dana White Urges Chimaev to Prioritize Middleweight Defenses
UFC CEO Dana White, while generally open to fighters pursuing titles in different divisions, has recently implemented a policy requiring champions to vacate their current belt before attempting to claim another. Given Chimaev’s recent capture of the middleweight title in August through a dominant performance against Dricus du Plessis, he now has numerous challengers lined up within his own division. Consequently, White is keen on arranging several high-profile matchups for Chimaev against a variety of contenders, including the victor of the upcoming UFC Vancouver main event.
