Khamzat Chimaev Reigns: Who’s Next for the UFC Middleweight Champ?

By Ali Hammad August 19, 2025 08:23

Khamzat Chimaev has officially marked his dominance in the UFC middleweight division, capturing the undisputed title with a commanding victory over titleholder Dricus du Plessis at UFC 319 on August 16, 2025. The 31-year-old fighter from the Chechen Republic turned in a masterclass performance, showcasing his relentless grappling and control to seal his claim as the new middleweight king. But with the belt secured, the question looms large: who will be the next challenger to stand in the path of the UFC’s most formidable force?

Chimaev’s championship bout was one of the most lopsided in UFC history. From the opening bell, he relentlessly pressured du Plessis with takedowns, securing 12 of 17 attempts, and maintained top control for just over 21 minutes of the 25-minute fight an extraordinary 88% control time, the second-highest in UFC annals. Despite controlling the match with dominant ground-and-pound tactics, Chimaev was unable to finish the fight, but the judges scored all three rounds 50-44 in his favor, underscoring his supreme control.

“I never come with a game plan,” Chimaev explained afterward. “I just work hard in the gym, go in there, and perform. Du Plessis is a strong guy and a real lion, and I respect him a lot. This fight was tough, but I did what I needed to do to win.” His pragmatic yet fearless approach defines the aura that has made him a fan favorite and a feared competitor worldwide.

Chimaev’s rise in the UFC has been meteoric. Since his debut in 2020, he has compiled a perfect 15-0 record, earning six Performance of the Night bonuses, thanks to a style blending ferocious wrestling, superior grappling, and evolving striking. This latest win, capturing the middleweight title, elevates him within the UFC pound-for-pound rankings, where he currently stands among the top 15 fighters globally.

Looking ahead, potential challengers to Chimaev’s throne spark lively debate. With his style heavily ground-oriented, critics occasionally argue the entertainment value of his fights, as seen in Paulo Costa’s pointed remarks after UFC 319. Despite that, Chimaev’s physical dominance is undeniable, forcing contenders to bring mixed skill sets capable of neutralizing his wrestling.

Names like Israel Adesanya, the former middleweight champion and current top contender, loom large as a stylistic threat capable of standing toe-to-toe with Chimaev’s striking arsenal. Adesanya’s precise striking and tactical savvy could test Chimaev’s stand-up game in a riveting title unification battle. Another intriguing prospective challenger is Israel’s coach and former champion Robert Whittaker, whose depth of experience and resilience make him a constant threat in division dynamics.

Among younger contenders, rising stars like Sean Strickland and Jared Cannonier might find the opportunity to disrupt the hierarchy. Both mix power and striking efficiency but must contend with Chimaev’s relentless pace on the ground. Given Chimaev’s dominance, any upcoming challenger must prepare for a multifaceted fight where wrestling, cardio, and mental toughness are as critical as punching power.

UFC President Dana White expressed his enthusiasm about the division, telling reporters, “Khamzat is the real deal young, hungry, and with a skill set that’s incredibly hard to beat. The middleweight division is going to be electric for the next few years.”

Khamzat Chimaev’s reign as the UFC middleweight champion represents a new era marked by physical dominance and strategic wrestling mastery. As he prepares to defend his title, the middleweight landscape buzzes with anticipation over who will step up to challenge the undefeated champion. Fans and fighters alike recognize that dethroning Chimaev will require not only skill but heart—the very essence of mixed martial arts.