In a bold move that could reshape the UFC landscape, light heavyweight champion Magomed Ankalaev has called out newly crowned middleweight king Khamzat Chimaev, urging him to step up to 205 pounds for a potential clash. Riding high after his dominant victory over Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 319, Chimaev has been openly welcomed by Ankalaev, who stated, “No problem” if the undefeated star wants to test himself against the division’s elite. As Ankalaev prepares for his rematch with Alex Pereira at UFC 320 on October 4, fans are already buzzing about the possibility of this high-stakes showdown.
Magomed Ankalaev congratulated Khamzat Chimaev on his dominant performance against DDP, but also welcomed his suggestion of moving up a weight class to challenge him.
Who do you guys have in this epic light heavyweight clash? pic.twitter.com/wHuhx4wJf0
— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) August 26, 2025
Chimaev’s Reign at Middleweight
Khamzat Chimaev’s rise has been nothing short of meteoric. His emphatic win over Dricus Du Plessis not only secured the middleweight belt but also cemented his status as one of the UFC’s most feared fighters. With a relentless grappling game combined with devastating striking, Chimaev has quickly become both a fan favourite and a nightmare matchup for anyone in his path. His dominant performance at UFC 319 showed that he is more than capable of handling the pressure of championship fights.
Now, talk of moving up to light heavyweight is intensifying. The idea of Chimaev testing himself against bigger, stronger opponents has captivated fans, especially after Ankalaev’s public challenge. Could Chimaev carry his dominance into a higher weight class, or would the size and power of light heavyweights prove to be his toughest test yet?
Ankalaev’s Focus on Legacy
Magomed Ankalaev, who captured the light heavyweight title earlier this year, has his sights firmly set on building a legacy as one of the division’s all-time greats. Known for his patient striking and calculated power, Ankalaev is preparing for a crucial rematch with Alex Pereira at UFC 320 in Las Vegas. After their first meeting, which ended in Ankalaev taking the belt, he wants to silence any critics by beating Pereira decisively and without excuses.
“I want him to come into this fight 100% so there are no questions about the outcome,” Ankalaev said, in reference to Pereira’s past injury and illness. It’s this same competitive drive that fuels his willingness to face Chimaev, an undefeated champion who represents one of the most intriguing challenges available.
The Potential Superfight
A clash between Ankalaev and Chimaev would be nothing short of seismic for the UFC. Their contrasting styles—Chimaev’s explosive wrestling and pressure versus Ankalaev’s tactical striking and counter-wrestling—promise an electrifying matchup. The fight could also carry massive implications, with two active champions potentially colliding in a crossover bout that fans would not want to miss.
Ankalaev made his stance clear: “If someone wants to move up and test my weight class, I always say, ‘Welcome.’” His confidence and openness to the challenge only add fuel to the speculation surrounding what could be one of the UFC’s biggest fights in years.
The Middleweight Division Without Chimaev?
If Chimaev does move up, the middleweight title picture remains packed with hungry contenders. Reinier de Ridder, Caio Borralho, and Nassourdine Imavov are all positioning themselves for a shot at gold. Each brings unique challenges, and their presence ensures that the middleweight division remains one of the UFC’s most competitive.
However, should Chimaev focus on defending his belt instead of moving up, fans can expect thrilling matchups across both divisions. His decision will be pivotal—not just for himself but for the fighters waiting in line at 185 pounds.
What’s Next for the Champions?
For now, Ankalaev’s immediate focus is his October showdown with Alex Pereira, while Chimaev weighs his options as middleweight champion. Whether the two collide in the near future or their paths diverge, the possibility of a super fight between them has already ignited conversations across the MMA world.
One thing is clear: the UFC is entering an era where champion vs. champion clashes could define legacies and shape the sport’s history. Ankalaev versus Chimaev might just be the fight fans didn’t know they needed—until now.
Key Details
- Challenge: Ankalaev invites Chimaev to move up to 205 pounds for a potential fight.
- Chimaev’s Achievement: Defeated Dricus Du Plessis to claim the middleweight title at UFC 319.
- Ankalaev’s Status: Current light heavyweight champion, preparing for UFC 320 rematch with Alex Pereira.
- Potential Impact: A fight could reshape both the light heavyweight and middleweight divisions.
- Other Contenders: Reinier de Ridder, Caio Borralho, and Nassourdine Imavov in line for middleweight shots.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Ankalaev say about facing Chimaev?
Ankalaev stated he would welcome Chimaev to the light heavyweight division, saying, “No problem” if the middleweight champion wants to move up.
When is Ankalaev fighting next?
Ankalaev will defend his light heavyweight title in a rematch against Alex Pereira at UFC 320 on October 4, 2025, in Las Vegas.
Who could challenge Chimaev at middleweight?
Reinier de Ridder, Caio Borralho, and Nassourdine Imavov are among the top contenders eyeing a title shot.
Why was Pereira’s first fight with Ankalaev controversial?
Pereira reportedly fought with a broken hand and norovirus, which Ankalaev referenced when demanding a fair, excuse-free rematch.
Could Chimaev succeed at light heavyweight?
Fans and analysts are divided, but his aggressive style and dominance at middleweight suggest he could be a major threat at 205 pounds.
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