UFC middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev targeted fellow titleholder Alex Pereira with a series of posts on social media. Chimaev recently claimed “nobody wants to fight” when asked about his Octagon return.
The fighter had planned a rapid comeback after winning the middleweight belt in August, but an injury forced him to delay. Fans and analysts questioned whether he would defend his title frequently, given his history of sporadic fights. Despite not yet defending the championship, Chimaev made it clear he prefers moving up a division rather than staying at 185 pounds.
Chimaev singles out Pereira and his coach
Chimaev previously announced Nassourdine Imavov as his next opponent for his first middleweight title defense. Many challengers remain at 185 pounds, but Chimaev appears uninterested in clearing the division before pursuing new challenges. He indicated he will fight once more at middleweight before advancing to light heavyweight.
In multiple social media posts, Chimaev targeted 205-pound champion Alex Pereira. He criticized a lack of mutual respect, writing on X, “Chama team talk too much, that’s why no respect anymore.” Chimaev also shared images of Pereira and coach Glover Teixeira, highlighting what separates him from the Brazilian. “Borz 15 W. Chama 13 W, and 3 losses. Only this is the difference between us,” he explained.
Fans voice concerns over Chimaev’s title reign
Analyst Din Thomas caused debate by claiming Chimaev’s UFC championship could hurt the sport. His slow activity frustrates fans, and his plan to move up a division after one defense increases criticism. Even his dominant title victory received scrutiny, leaving the undefeated fighter’s reign under pressure. Chimaev can change opinions with impressive performances, but the wait for that moment is already testing fan patience.
