Khamzat Chimaev recently stunned the mixed martial arts world by securing the UFC middleweight championship after a dominant victory over Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 319. Demonstrating relentless wrestling control for over 21 minutes, Chimaev solidified his status as a top contender. Following this triumph, speculation has grown around a potential superfight with Islam Makhachev, a leading figure in the lightweight division who recently vacated his title to pursue welterweight challenges.
Although Chimaev openly suggested that defeating Makhachev would boost his pound-for-pound standing, Makhachev has expressed reluctance to engage with Chimaev at this time, emphasizing his focus on an upcoming difficult fight instead.
Islam Makhachev Prefers to Avoid Escalating Rivalry with Khamzat Chimaev
Islam Makhachev, speaking at an Eagle FC press conference, highlighted the sensitive nature of any clash with Khamzat Chimaev, reflecting the broader cultural and regional tensions between their respective communities. When directly asked about meeting Chimaev in the octagon, Makhachev stated:
“Now, answering this question, I don’t want to open the door to any conflict between our peoples. We will see. I have a tough fight ahead. After that, we’ll see.” —Islam Makhachev, Eagle FC press conference
Both fighters come from deeply proud, predominantly Muslim regions—Chimaev from Chechnya and Makhachev from Dagestan—and despite their competitive positions, they maintain mutual respect. Previous UFC events, such as UFC 280, saw tensions flare when Chimaev had a confrontation with Abubakar Nurmagomedov, a close associate of Makhachev. However, intervention from Khabib Nurmagomedov and Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov soon de-escalated the situation.
Following those events, both Chimaev and Abubakar Nurmagomedov publicly reconciled, apologizing and emphasizing that there was no lasting animosity, affirming the respect shared between their teams.
Chimaev has often praised Khabib Nurmagomedov as a major inspiration throughout his career and openly credits Makhachev for his achievements, emphasizing there is no personal conflict between them.
The Rise of Khamzat Chimaev as a UFC Dominant Force
With his recent title win, Khamzat Chimaev has firmly established himself among the UFC’s elite, boasting a wrestling style that some fans and analysts consider unmatched. Chimaev claims he surpasses even Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev in wrestling prowess, which has fueled anticipation for a matchup between him and Makhachev, who is regarded as one of the best pound-for-pound fighters.
Islam Makhachev’s Upcoming Battle Against Jack Della Maddalena
Currently, Islam Makhachev is focusing intensely on his next fight against newly crowned welterweight champion Jack Della Maddalena. Despite heavy odds favoring Makhachev in betting markets, Della Maddalena remains confident and unshaken by the challenge.
One concern among experts is Makhachev’s ability to adapt his body to welterweight demands. The Dagestani fighter has revealed that he weighs approximately 191 pounds and aims to increase muscle mass ahead of the bout, attempting to narrow the size advantage of his opponent.
This fight is expected to take place later this year at the iconic Madison Square Garden. Della Maddalena has expressed a preference for holding the fight in Perth, his hometown, but Makhachev insists on competing in the bright lights and history of MSG.
Before this intensely anticipated event, Chimaev shared his perspective on who might emerge victorious:
“It’s good fight but a tough fight. I go a little bit more on Islam.” —Khamzat Chimaev, UFC 319 Media Day
Jack Della Maddalena’s Preparation and Strategy Ahead of Fight
Della Maddalena impressed fans in his recent win over Belal Muhammad, showing precise striking and movement that unsettled his opponent’s defense. His effective use of head movement and sharp body shots have become signature elements of his fighting style that could pose unique challenges for Makhachev.
Some analysts believe Della Maddalena’s powerful striking and unwavering confidence could enable him to overcome Makhachev’s grappling expertise. To prepare, Maddalena has been working closely with Alexander Volkanovski, the featherweight champion who has significant experience dealing with fighters from Dagestan.
Additionally, he has trained with grappling expert Craig Jones, who carries ongoing rivalries with Team Khabib and is known for developing strategies aiming to neutralize Dagestani dominance in MMA.
The result of this fight will be closely watched as it could significantly impact the trajectory of both fighters’ careers and the broader division landscape.
Context of Respect and Rivalry Between Fighters and Their Communities
The relationship between Khamzat Chimaev and Islam Makhachev is complex, shaped by competitive ambition but also rooted in cultural and religious identities. Their origins in Chechnya and Dagestan, respectively, both proud Muslim regions, add layers of meaning to any potential encounter.
Past conflicts, such as the altercation involving Abubakar Nurmagomedov, were defused by key figures like Khabib Nurmagomedov and Ramzan Kadyrov, reflecting the importance of maintaining peace between these communities while navigating the pressures of elite competition.
Chimaev’s admiration for Nurmagomedov and acknowledgment of Makhachev’s skills demonstrate a willingness to balance rivalry with respect, although tension and anticipation remain high among fans awaiting a direct confrontation.
As both fighters continue to advance their careers, the prospect of a superfight remains uncertain but highly anticipated, contingent on their upcoming fights and broader considerations beyond the octagon.