At UFC 319, Khamzat Chimaev demonstrated a rare level of dominance, reinforcing why many consider him one of the most feared grapplers in the sport. However, despite his undefeated record, concerns have emerged about his vulnerability against wrestlers who can counter his style, signaling that his toughest challenges may still lie ahead.
The challenge of grapplers who can neutralize Chimaev’s wrestling
Khamzat Chimaev’s recent shutout victory over Dricus du Plessis did not come without criticism, as du Plessis was able to take Chimaev down and control him on the ground for significant portions of the fight. This inability to prevent takedowns exposed a potential weakness for the champion and has raised questions within the division about who can truly challenge ‘Borz.’
Though Chimaev has hinted at a future bout against another dangerous grappler, finding an opponent capable of defeating or neutralizing his wrestling has proven to be an immense challenge. The next contender will need to force Chimaev into a striking battle, something few have been able to do effectively so far.
Matt Brown highlights a Yoel Romero-style wrestler as an intriguing challenge for Chimaev
Speculation around Chimaev’s next opponent points to submission expert Reinier de Ridder, a dangerous grappler known for his prowess on the mat. Nevertheless, many believe Chimaev’s wrestling dominance will still make it difficult for anyone to keep him grounded.
Former UFC competitor Matt Brown discussed the implications of Chimaev’s skill set on MMA Fighting’s ‘Fighter vs. Writer’ podcast, emphasizing that stopping Chimaev’s wrestling is key to beating him. Brown suggested that it would take a fighter who could force Chimaev to remain standing to present a genuine test.
Until someone solves his wrestling puzzle, I’m not sure how you’re going to beat him. Someone’s going to have to give him a hard time taking them down where he is forced to stand.
—Matt Brown, Former UFC Fighter
Brown went on to identify Yoel Romero, a former UFC middleweight known for combining elite wrestling with extraordinary power, as a prime example of a fighter who could challenge Chimaev’s style if he were still active today. Despite Romero never capturing a title, his presence in the division was always a threat because he could neutralize wrestling and bring heavy striking to the table.
It’s very cool to watch him progress,
Brown added.
He’s not going to lose that wrestling. I’m sure that’s who he’s always going to be but if at some point he comes across a Yoel Romero type and he’s forced to stay on the feet, I think it’s going to be exciting to watch and exciting to see how that plays out.
—Matt Brown, Former UFC Fighter
Joe Rogan reflects on Yoel Romero’s extraordinary physical gifts and challenges at middleweight
Yoel Romero was known for his unique athleticism—a rare combination of immense size, speed, and power that made him stand out as a middleweight fighter. While he struggled occasionally with weight cutting, which led to missed weights in two UFC title fights, Romero’s physical presence and fighting ability remained imposing throughout his career.
Joe Rogan, longtime UFC commentator, expressed amazement at Romero’s size and strength during discussions with Jorge Masvidal on the Joe Rogan Experience MMA Show. He remarked on how Romero defied expectations about the middleweight division because of his heavyweight-like physique.
The only guy who freaked me out was Yoel [Romero]. Yoel Romero would look so big at 185 pounds, you’re like, ‘How is that 185 pounds? How is that even possible’? He looks like a heavyweight.
—Joe Rogan, UFC Commentator
Romero’s ability to bring overwhelming power while maintaining elite wrestling skills created a nightmare matchup scenario for many fighters during his prime. His style forced opponents to adapt, often compelling them to fight in ways they were uncomfortable with.
Implications for Chimaev’s path forward in the division
Khamzat Chimaev’s wrestling dominance has taken him far, but the growing awareness of his susceptibility to counter-wrestling strategies indicates that his most challenging opponents are yet to emerge. If matched against a Yoel Romero-type competitor—one capable of withstanding takedowns and forcing a striking contest—Chimaev will face a new kind of test that could ultimately determine his place in the division hierarchy.
The UFC division will be watching closely as Chimaev potentially faces Reinier de Ridder or another elite grappler skilled enough to challenge his control. How Chimaev adapts to these scenarios will offer insight into whether he can maintain his unbeaten streak or if his wrestling will finally meet its match in a fighter capable of dragging the contest decisively to the feet.