Khamzat Chimaev might be charting a path similar to Alex Pereira’s, following his recent loss.
The Chechen’s first defeat came in the main event of UFC 328 in Newark, where he lost his title in his very first defence.
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Chimaev’s performance, which many linked to weight issues, saw him lose to Sean Strickland and give up the middleweight belt. Now, a move up to light heavyweight seems likely, which could bring him closer to a fight against ‘Poatan’ – a matchup fans have discussed for some time.
Pereira has taken notice of Chimaev’s situation but feels there are bigger names and opportunities ahead of him for now. “Well, I think there is another fight going on that could happen before that one [Khamzat],” he said recently. “I don’t think it will be right now.”
Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC
Alex Pereira’s first coach would back him to KO Jon Jones, but isn’t so sure about Khamzat Chimaev
During Pereira’s time at the top of the 205-pound division, Chimaev made it clear he wanted a shot at him.
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Both fighters have spoken about their goals across multiple weight classes. Pereira is just weeks away from a chance to make history as the first triple champion in UFC.
Wera also said that even if Jon Jones were in Gane’s place, he’d still expect ‘Poatan’ to come out on top.
“I think if this June fight was with Jon Jones, Alex might have more trouble, but he would also end up knocked out.”
When it comes to a potential fight against Chimaev, though, Wera isn’t as certain.
“That guy is tough,” he said of the now-former UFC middleweight champion. “I see that he has a different attitude, they even call him ‘Wolf.’ He has a different look and usually finds the opponents’ weaknesses.
“Against this ‘Wolf’ guy, Alex would have to prepare well,” he added. Following his loss to Strickland at UFC 328, some are rethinking their stance on Chimaev.
