Khamzat Chimaev achieved a major milestone on Saturday by claiming the UFC middleweight title, joining a select group of fighters who have reached this level. The event took place in Chicago, marking the UFC’s return to the city after six years, and featured a highly anticipated main event where Chimaev faced Dricus Du Plessis for the 185-pound belt.
Chimaev dominated the fight from the start, decisively defeating Du Plessis to become the new champion in the middleweight division. Shortly after his victory, Chimaev indicated plans to defend his title at UFC 321, scheduled for October, signaling his intent to remain active in the division.
Sean O’Malley Recommends Move to Light Heavyweight for Chimaev
Despite Chimaev’s recent success at middleweight, former bantamweight champ Sean O’Malley has suggested that Chimaev should consider moving up to light heavyweight. O’Malley cited concerns regarding the Chechen fighter’s past struggles with health, which have affected his ability to lock down one weight class consistently.
Chimaev weighed in at 183 pounds for UFC 319, slightly under the middleweight limit, highlighting his effective preparation. However, O’Malley believes that Chimaev’s dominance at 185 pounds might warrant competing in the 205-pound category instead.
In a video posted on his YouTube channel, O’Malley said,
“We just knew it was a matter of time before that dude was champ,”
reflecting on Chimaev’s rise and potential future matchups.
He continued by analyzing possible opponents, stating,
“So what makes sense for Khamzat Chimaev? Does it make sense for him to fight at 185lbs again or is he just too dominant? Does he go up to 205lbs? (Magomed) Ankalaev is fighting Alex Pereira, even still it’s like, maybe Ankalaev (does well against) Khamzat, it could be interesting, maybe, purely on how big Ankalaev is.”
O’Malley further praised Chimaev’s skill set:
“What a freak of nature. That is years of hard work,”
emphasizing the fighter’s exceptional talent.
Potential Challenges and Opportunities for Chimaev at Higher Weight
Before capturing the middleweight crown, Khamzat Chimaev expressed ambitions to become the first UFC fighter to hold titles in three weight classes, having previously competed at welterweight. While moving back to 170 pounds seems unlikely, light heavyweight could present a new frontier for him.
Chimaev’s aggressive style and wrestling dominance could pose significant problems for opponents like Alex Pereira, especially if Pereira regains the UFC light heavyweight title at UFC 320. Such a matchup would generate major interest given Pereira’s striking and Chimaev’s grappling prowess.
With top contenders like Israel Adesanya, Nassourdine Imavov, and Sean Strickland in the middleweight division, O’Malley suggested that Chimaev’s wrestling advantage makes matching up against these skilled strikers less challenging, hinting at a strategic reason for Chimaev to seek new challenges at 205 pounds.
Looking Ahead: Chimaev’s Next Moves in the UFC Landscape
Khamzat Chimaev’s middleweight title win solidifies his status as one of the UFC’s elite fighters, and his possible move to light heavyweight could reshape multiple divisions. His upcoming title defense at UFC 321 will be closely watched as fans and analysts gauge his readiness to either maintain dominance at 185 pounds or pursue greater challenges among heavier opponents.
The UFC landscape may shift depending on results at UFC 320, as Alex Pereira’s performance might influence Chimaev’s decision to move up. Meanwhile, Sean O’Malley’s recommendations highlight the ongoing debate about where ‘Borz’ fit best for long-term success and legacy formation within the UFC.