Published 39 days ago
The Swede refocuses his career on the 185-pound division, despite speculation following his loss to Strickland
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Khamzat Chimaev, after his controversial loss to Sean Strickland at UFC 328, reaffirms his priority: dominate the middleweight division (185 lbs) before considering a move to light heavyweight. The 29-year-old Swede also owns up to his weigh-in mistakes, acknowledging his humanity amid the unpredictability of fight prep.
To remember:
- Khamzat Chimaev confirms his priority: dominate the middleweight division (185 lbs) before any move to light heavyweight.
- He stays in middleweight, ruling out an immediate transition despite speculation following his loss to Sean Strickland.
- "I won’t leave this division until I’ve beaten everyone at 185 pounds," he declares with determination.
- Chimaev owns his weight issues during the weigh-in before his last fight, admitting to a human error.
- His humility in the face of prep uncertainties contrasts with his usually uncompromising image.
Unbelievable! Khamzat Chimaev, one of the UFC’s most explosive fighters, has just clarified his future in the middleweight (185 lbs) division. After a controversial loss to Sean Strickland at UFC 328 on May 9, speculation about a potential move to light heavyweight was rampant. Yet, during a pre-event press conference for RFA, the 29-year-old Swede dismissed these rumors outright.
A Clear Priority: Dominate Middleweight
Chimaev isn’t hiding his ambition: he wants to beat every opponent in his division before considering a move up. "I won’t leave this division until I’ve beaten everyone at 185 pounds," he declared with unwavering determination. This stance marks a turning point in his career, following his first UFC loss, which shook his reputation of invincibility.
Human Errors and Rediscovered Humility
The Swede also addressed the weight issues he faced during the weigh-in before his fight against Strickland. "A mistake happened. Mistakes occur, nothing is perfect. We’re only human," he admitted. This honesty contrasts with his usually uncompromising image, reminding us that even elite athletes remain vulnerable to the unpredictability of preparation.
While some expected a division change, Chimaev proves he remains focused on middleweight. A decision that could redefine his career and legacy within the organization.
Khamzat Chimaev has made his decision: middleweight (185 lbs) remains his primary focus. Despite a loss and weigh-in mistakes, his ambition and humility could well pave the way for a return to the top.