Khamzat Chimaev won the middleweight title at UFC 319. Now everyone wants to know who he’ll fight first. He originally mentioned Caio Borralho or Nassourdine Imavov as his next opponent, but Reinier de Ridder changed that conversation with a recent callout for UFC 321 in Abu Dhabi.
Dana White seems willing to make it happen, and the champion is ready to fight again soon. With multiple fighters publicly asking for the title shot, there’s plenty of hype around his next move. Fans are already debating the odds on different online betting sites, making his first title defense one of the most talked-about storylines in MMA right now.
The middleweight division is stacked right now. Here are the three most likely opponents, ranked by how realistic each fight is.
3. Caio Borralho – The Rising Brazilian
Why this could happen: Borralho is ranked #6 and fights Nassourdine Imavov in a title eliminator at UFC Paris on September 6. If he wins that fight, he’s got a strong case for a title shot. He’s undefeated in the UFC and brings a fresh face to the title picture.
What makes this interesting: Borralho has never lost in the UFC and carries himself like a guy who believes he belongs at the top. His Brazilian fanbase would make this a solid pay-per-view draw. This would be classic veteran champion versus hungry newcomer.
How he could win: Borralho’s cardio is excellent, and his submission defense is solid. If he can survive Chimaev’s early takedowns and ground control, he might be able to outwork him in the later rounds. His biggest strength is staying calm under pressure and finding ways to win even when he’s losing rounds.
2. Reinier de Ridder – The Dutch Destroyer
Why this makes sense: De Ridder just dominated former champion Robert Whittaker and immediately started campaigning for a title shot. The former ONE Championship two-division champion has the credentials. He’s called out Chimaev for UFC 321 in Abu Dhabi on October 25.
Why it’s interesting: Two elite grapplers with different backgrounds. De Ridder has a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt and submission expertise. Chimaev relies on Dagestani wrestling and ground control. At 6’4″, de Ridder has a significant size advantage.
How he could win: De Ridder’s length and submission game could neutralize Chimaev’s wrestling. He’s been a two-division champion, so he handles pressure. If he can use his size to control distance and threaten submissions from his back, he might solve the puzzle that others couldn’t. He told reporters: “I already faced the best American wrestler, I’m curious to see how I can do against the best Caucasus area wrestler. Send me the contract.”
Reinier de Ridder says he’s ready to fight Khamzat Chimaev at #UFC321 in Abu Dhabi on October 25th 👀
“I already faced the best American wrestler, I’m curious to see how I can do against the best Caucasus area wrestler.”
“Send me the contract.” 👀👀
(via @DamonMartin /… pic.twitter.com/ZbBVFplI56
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) August 18, 2025
1. Nassourdine Imavov – The Clear Frontrunner
Why this is most likely: Imavov is the #1 contender and just knocked out Israel Adesanya, which announced him as a legitimate title threat. He fights Borralho in September, and if he wins, there’s no question he’s next in line.
What makes this the best fight: Imavov has the most complete skill set of the three. His wrestling background means he can potentially stop Chimaev’s takedowns, and his striking has proven dangerous against elite competition. He’s finished quality opponents and has the tools to end fights anywhere.
How he could win: Imavov’s counter-wrestling and scrambling ability could neutralize Chimaev’s biggest weapon. His striking in the clinch and on the feet is sharp, and he’s shown he can finish fights when opportunities present themselves. His Dagestani training background means he understands the wrestling-heavy style that Chimaev uses.
Imavov is the most likely first challenger. He has the ranking, recent wins, and skills to give Chimaev problems. The winner of Imavov vs. Borralho in September probably gets the title shot, with de Ridder as a backup option who’s already called his shot for Abu Dhabi.
Each of these guys can fight. Chimaev is dominant, but the middleweight division is deep enough that his first title defense won’t be easy no matter who he faces.
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