Khamzat Chimaev is convinced that he knows what the next one is after achieving title glory at UFC 319.
It may have taken longer than many had expected when he burst on stage with two wins in just 10 days in 2020, but Chimaev is ultimately on a UFC throne.
After a difficult period of health problems and a weight miss that brought his striving for the Welterweight title for the time being, 'Borz' has completed a rapid rise in the top with 185 pounds. And the highlight of that journey came to UFC 319, where Chimaev Drus Du Persis dominated.
As is often the case after title fights, the Chechen star did not have to enjoy his crown for long before questions arose with regard to the next step in his career. Fortunately, the new champion already has a good idea of what awaits us.
Khamzat Chimaev says that Caio Borralho or Nassourdine Imavov is 'certain' after UFC 319
The accusation of Anthony Hernandez was Cageside for Du Plessis vs Chimaev, after he recently expanded his winning series to eight with a brutal representation against Roman Dolidze. But from the middle weights in Chicago, it does not seem as if 'fluffy' is at the front of the line.
Also with a view of the first row of things in United Center, Caio Borralho, who weighed on Friday as the backup hunter for the main event. It will not be long before the Brazilian returns to the scale because he will head UFC Paris at the beginning of September against France's own Nassourdine Imavov.
During an appearance on ESPN's UFC 319 Post Show, Chimaev made it clear that he sees that collision as an eliminator.
“Certainly,” said Chimaev when he was asked if Imavov versus Borralho will determine the next number one contender.
“Both boys are strong guys and good hunters. I have worked with both boys, they know my level in wrestling and how good I am.
“I know how good they are, they are good hunters,” Chimaev added.
The first defense of Khamzat Chimaev could come surprisingly fast
More than just knowing the fight that will determine his opponent, the newly crowned middleweight King may already have a date to prepare.
In the midst of worries about his activity as a champion, Chimaev wants a quick change for UFC 321 in Abu Dhabi in October. Although that seemed to be an ambitious plan, given the Wars du Plessis is often, 'Borz' has emerged relatively damage -free from UFC 319.
The champion recently received the green light for that goal during the press conference after the fight, with Dana White willing to grant the wish of Chimaev.
“I just had a child fight Tuesday and wanted to turn around and fight here. Abu Dhabi? I would definitely consider it.”