The world of mixed martial arts (MMA) thrives on fierce rivalries, bold statements, and high-stakes matchups. But when two of the UFC’s most dominant fighters engage in public verbal warfare, the tension reaches another level.
Recently, Khamzat Chimaev took a direct shot at UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev, mocking him and claiming that he would never have the courage to move up to middleweight. The comments, which spread like wildfire across the MMA community, have fueled speculation about a possible super fight between the two Dagestani-born warriors.
But is this just typical fight hype, or is there a deeper conflict brewing between Chimaev and Makhachev?
Let’s dive into:
Chimaev’s bold claims and why he’s targeting Makhachev
Islam Makhachev’s dominance in the lightweight division
The weight-class dilemma and whether Makhachev would ever move up
How a potential fight between the two would play out
What this means for the future of the UFC’s lightweight and middleweight divisions
If Chimaev is calling out Makhachev, is this a strategic move, a personal rivalry, or an attempt to stir controversy?
Let’s break it down.
1. Khamzat Chimaev: The Undefeated Wolf on a Mission
Who is Khamzat Chimaev?
Khamzat “Borz” Chimaev has quickly risen to stardom in the UFC, becoming one of the most feared and talked-about fighters. His aggressive style, dominant wrestling, and knockout power make him a nightmare for opponents in both the welterweight (170 lbs) and middleweight (185 lbs) divisions.
Undefeated MMA record
Devastating wrestling and submission skills
Victory over former UFC middleweight champion Kamaru Usman
Known for his quick finishes and overwhelming pressure
Chimaev has fought in multiple weight classes, proving that he is not just an elite fighter, but a versatile one who can take on larger opponents.
Chimaev’s Harsh Words for Makhachev
During a recent interview, Chimaev didn’t hold back when talking about Islam Makhachev.
“He will never dare to move up to middleweight. He’s too small, too scared. If he fights me, I’ll smash him.”
Chimaev’s words quickly spread, sparking a debate among fans and analysts.
While many agree that Makhachev is the king of the lightweight division, moving up to middleweight is an entirely different challenge—especially if it means facing someone like Chimaev.
But why is Chimaev taking aim at Makhachev? Is it a calculated attempt to force Makhachev into a fight? Or is it personal?
2. Islam Makhachev: The Reigning Lightweight King
Makhachev’s Rise to UFC Stardom
Islam Makhachev, the protégé of Khabib Nurmagomedov, has established himself as one of the most dominant champions in UFC history. His incredible wrestling, sambo skills, and submission game have made him nearly untouchable in the lightweight division.
UFC Lightweight Champion
Multiple title defenses against top contenders
Elite ground control and submission expertise
Considered one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the UFC
Under the guidance of Khabib and the Dagestani fight system, Makhachev has dismantled the division with ease. But while he has dominated lightweight (155 lbs), the idea of moving up to middleweight (185 lbs) seems far-fetched.
And Chimaev knows it.
Would Makhachev Ever Move Up?
The biggest question following Chimaev’s comments is simple:
Would Islam Makhachev ever move up to middleweight to fight someone like Chimaev?
At 5’10”, Makhachev is not naturally built for 185 lbs. Fighters like Sean Strickland, Israel Adesanya, and Robert Whittaker all walk around at over 200 lbs before cutting weight—far heavier than Makhachev.
The jump from 155 lbs to 185 lbs is extreme.
The UFC has no 165-lb or 175-lb division, meaning Makhachev would have to either bulk up significantly or enter a fight against naturally bigger and stronger men like Chimaev.
Even though fighters like Georges St-Pierre and Conor McGregor have won titles in multiple divisions, they moved up to only one weight class higher—not two.
For Makhachev, a move to welterweight (170 lbs) is somewhat realistic. But middleweight?
That’s exactly why Chimaev is taunting him—he knows Makhachev would struggle with the weight jump.
3. What Would Happen If Chimaev and Makhachev Fought?
A potential fight between Khamzat Chimaev and Islam Makhachev would be one of the most talked-about matchups in UFC history.
But how would it actually play out inside the Octagon?
Chimaev has the power advantage. He has proven knockout power and has finished opponents with brutal strikes.
Makhachev is technical but lacks knockout power. He mainly uses striking to set up takedowns.
If this fight stays standing, Chimaev would likely have the edge.
Grappling and Wrestling
Makhachev’s wrestling is elite, but he is much smaller. Against bigger middleweights, his takedown effectiveness may be reduced.
Chimaev is also a high-level wrestler. He has out-wrestled elite grapplers before.
If this fight hits the ground, it could turn into a chess match.
Cardio and Endurance
Makhachev has shown incredible five-round endurance. He can push a high pace for long fights.
Chimaev, while explosive, has struggled with cardio in later rounds. If the fight goes deep, Makhachev could take over.
Fight Prediction
If the fight happens at 185 lbs, Chimaev would have a major size advantage.
If Makhachev can land takedowns, he has a chance to control the fight.
If Chimaev lands a clean shot early, Makhachev could get knocked out.
Final Prediction: Chimaev by TKO in Round 2.
4. What’s Next for Chimaev and Makhachev?
While a Chimaev vs. Makhachev fight would be incredible, the chances of it happening anytime soon are slim.
Makhachev will likely continue defending his lightweight title. A possible move to welterweight (170 lbs) could happen, but middleweight is a big stretch.
Chimaev is focused on middleweight. If he wins a title at 185 lbs, a fight with Makhachev could be even bigger.
The UFC would need a massive payday to make this fight happen.
Could we ever see this fight? Maybe—but not yet.
For now, Chimaev is doing what he does best—talking trash, stirring the pot, and keeping the MMA world entertained.
Will Makhachev Accept the Challenge?
Khamzat Chimaev’s bold callout of Islam Makhachev has created serious buzz in the MMA world. While the fight may seem unlikely due to weight-class differences, it raises an interesting question:
Is Makhachev willing to challenge himself at higher weights, or will he remain in the lightweight division forever?
For now, Makhachev remains undisputed at 155 lbs, while Chimaev continues his dominance at 185 lbs.
But in the UFC, anything is possible.
And if Makhachev ever dares to move up… Chimaev will be waiting.
