What UFC rank is Khamzat Chimaev?

By Ali Hammad February 16, 2024 05:43

Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC

Khamzat Chimaev is currently ranked No. 8 in the middleweight division of the UFC. However, there have been discussions and controversies surrounding his ranking, particularly from fellow fighters like Brendan Allen, who expressed skepticism about Chimaev's placement in the rankings.

How UFC Rankings Are Determined

The UFC rankings are determined by a voting panel comprised of media members from various outlets. These media members vote for the top fighters in each weight class and pound-for-pound rankings. The champions and interim champions are considered to be in the top positions of their respective divisions and are not eligible for voting by weight-class. However, they can be voted on for the pound-for-pound rankings. The rankings are updated periodically, and the panel includes members from a variety of media outlets, contributing to a diverse range of opinions.

Khamzat Chimaev's Performance and Controversy

Khamzat Chimaev has made an impact in the UFC with a perfect 7-0 record, including victories in both the welterweight and middleweight divisions. His notable wins include a submission victory over Kevin Holland and a unanimous decision win over Gilbert Burns. Chimaev's success across divisions has sparked debate, with some questioning the validity of his middleweight ranking. Brendan Allen, a fellow middleweight contender, has openly criticized Chimaev's ranking, stating that Chimaev hasn't faced a ranked middleweight and suggesting that his ranking is unwarranted.

The Controversy Surrounding Chimaev's Middleweight Ranking

Brendan Allen's critique of Chimaev's ranking revolves around the fact that despite Chimaev's impressive performances, he hasn't faced a ranked middleweight opponent. Allen emphasized that the fight between Chimaev and former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman, which took place at middleweight, doesn't necessarily validate Chimaev's ranking in the middleweight division.

The Debate on UFC Middleweight Rankings

Allen's comments shed light on the broader debate regarding the transparency and fairness of UFC rankings, particularly in the middleweight division. He expressed concerns about the political nature of rankings, suggesting that they may not always be reflective of a fighter's skill and performance. This has led to discussions about the need for clearer guidelines and criteria for UFC rankings, ensuring that rankings are based on merit rather than external factors.

The Impact of Controversy on UFC Rankings

The controversy surrounding Khamzat Chimaev's middleweight ranking exemplifies the ongoing discussions within the UFC community regarding the validity and fairness of rankings. It has prompted conversations about the need for greater transparency and objectivity in the ranking process, addressing concerns raised by fighters like Brendan Allen and others. As the UFC continues to evolve, the issue of rankings and their impact on fighters' careers remains a topic of interest and scrutiny.

Khamzat Chimaev is currently ranked No. 8 in the UFC middleweight division. However, his ranking has been the subject of debate and controversy, with fellow fighters questioning the validity of his placement due to the opponents he has faced in the middleweight division. This controversy has sparked broader discussions about the transparency and fairness of UFC rankings, highlighting the need for clearer criteria and guidelines to ensure rankings are based on merit and performance rather than external factors.