Khamzat Chimaev’s undefeated streak and UFC Middleweight Championship were unexpectedly broken at UFC 328 on May 9th, as Sean Strickland outpointed him in Newark. Chimaev had dominated opponents like Robert Whittaker and Dricus Du Plessis to secure the middleweight title. However, a significant weight cut to 185 pounds and Strickland’s effective takedown defense led to a split-decision loss in Chimaev’s first title defense.
Online betting platforms heavily favored Chimaev, with Bovada listing him as a -500 favorite against an underdog Sean Strickland at +410. Despite enduring Chimaev’s initial offensive pressure, Strickland controlled the fight, winning rounds two and three, and securing a narrow victory on two judges’ scorecards in the fifth round.
Chimaev’s Impending Move to Light Heavyweight
Following the upset, UFC President Dana White confirmed in a press conference that Chimaev intends to move up to light heavyweight, citing the challenging weight cut from middleweight as the primary reason. This move is notable considering Chimaev’s history, having competed at welterweight (170 pounds) just four years prior.
Despite the announced move, Chimaev’s social media activity suggests a potential middleweight rematch with Strickland is still a possibility. However, assuming Dana White’s statement about the light heavyweight debut is accurate, the question arises: who would be an ideal first opponent for Chimaev in the 205-pound division? Here are three potential matchups the UFC could consider.
Carlos Ulberg
Similar to how Ilia Topuria received an immediate title shot after moving from featherweight to lightweight, and Islam Makhachev from lightweight to welterweight, and Alex Pereira is set to challenge for an interim heavyweight title after vacating light heavyweight, the UFC might offer Chimaev a similar opportunity. Carlos Ulberg, the new light heavyweight champion, who impressively knocked out Jiří Procházka in the first round despite an early injury, could be a prime candidate for Chimaev’s debut.
However, a significant caveat exists: Topuria, Makhachev, and Pereira were all champions of their respective divisions when they moved up. Chimaev, having lost his middleweight title, might not be granted the same immediate championship opportunity.
Jiří Procházka
Rumors suggest that Chimaev’s intense weight cut for the Strickland fight was preparation for a planned light heavyweight debut against Jiří Procházka. The initial plan was reportedly for Chimaev to move to 205 pounds, but the UFC shifted to a middleweight title defense against Strickland at the last minute. Could this matchup now materialize?
A fight against Procházka, currently ranked third in the division and coming off a title loss to Ulberg, would be a significant debut for Chimaev. A victory over Procházka could position Chimaev as the number one contender. Procházka has lost his last three title challenges and has become a notable gatekeeper in the division. He appears to be a stylistic matchup that could favor Chimaev, potentially leading to a dominant wrestling victory if an immediate title shot is not arranged.
Paulo Costa
If Chimaev opts for an opponent outside the top contenders, the seventh-ranked Paulo Costa presents a viable option. The outspoken Brazilian has publicly expressed his desire to fight and “hurt” Chimaev, making their potential clash a highly anticipated event.
Costa recently made an impressive light heavyweight debut with a knockout win over Azamat Murzakanov, propelling him to seventh in the rankings. A fight between Costa and Chimaev would undoubtedly generate significant media attention, with the winner likely to position themselves for a title shot.
