Khamzat Chimaev opens up about his plans for middleweight return and future move to light heavyweight division

UFC’s Khamzat Chimaev is making a comeback in the middleweight division and he got big plans ahead. The undefeated contender revealed that he wants to eventually move up to the light heavyweight limit of 205lbs. He even tried to score a title fight with Glover Teixeira earlier this year.

Chimaev hasn’t been in action since UFC 279 last year. When he won a first-round D’Arce choke submission against Kevin Holland. Now, he’s set to return at UFC 294 in October, making a move back to middleweight to face Paulo Costa in the United Arab Emirates.

Khamzat Chimaev opens up about his plans for middleweight return and future move to light heavyweight division

But Chimaev has his sights set higher. He’s not just thinking about middleweight. He’s eyeing the light heavyweight division too. He said he asked Dana White about a title shot against Glover Teixeira at 205lbs but it didn’t happen. Still, Chimaev is ready for the challenge.

In an interview with TNT Sports reporter, Caroline Pearce, Chimaev said, “I fight in all divisions. For me, it doesn’t matter. I asked Dana White when somebody dropped out, I asked to fight with Glover Teixeira for the title [at light heavyweight].”

Chimaev is ranked number four in the welterweight division but he’s not content with just one weight class. He’s open to fighting in different divisions and collecting titles along the way. Although his focus is on the upcoming middleweight clash. He’s ready for whatever comes his way.

The fighter also mentioned that last September. He missed weight for a scheduled bout against Nate Diaz and that caused the fight to be canceled. He’s hoping for better preparation this time around not getting short notice like before.

Chimaev’s ambition is clear he aims to collect titles in multiple divisions. He is ready to compete in any weight class and if the right opportunity arises he is prepared to move down in weight. However, he also emphasizes the importance of having adequate time for preparation unlike his previous experience where he was given only four weeks’ notice for a fight.

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