Khamzat Chimaev: Next step, defend the title or seek another belt?
Khamzat Chimaev, after an impressive victory over Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 319, has established himself as the middleweight champion. The undefeated fighter from Chechnya, Russia, has proven his worth with a dominant performance, but now the question is: will he defend his middleweight title or seek a second belt in another category?
Khamzat Chimaev, on the left, dominates Dricus Du Plessis, on the right, to win the middleweight championship at UFC 319.
Who should be Chimaev’s next opponent?An option could be the winner of the fight between Jack Della Maddalena and Islam Makhachev. Although it could be controversial, the possibility of Chimaev competing in another category, such as welterweight, where Makhachev and Della Maddalena could face each other for the title, is a scenario to consider. Chimaev has expressed his interest in moving between categories, and this could be the perfect opportunity to face new stars in 2026.Alternative option: The winner of the fight between Nassourdine Imavov and Caio Borralho, scheduled for September. This fight could be key to keeping the middleweight division active. The winner would become the number one contender, and Chimaev would have the opportunity to defend his title.
Dricus Du Plessis: Who will be his next rival?
Despite the loss to Chimaev, Du Plessis remains a significant competitor in the division. His next opponent is expected to be the loser of the fight between Imavov and Borralho. Both fighters are at the peak of their careers, and a confrontation between them is almost inevitable.Alternative option: Reinier de Ridder. Although he is not in the top rankings, De Ridder has shown great performance in his last fights and could be an interesting option.
Lerone Murphy: Road to the Featherweight Title?
Lerone Murphy impressed with a spectacular knockout over Aaron Pico. The victory could open the doors to a championship opportunity later this year. His next rival could be Alexander Volkanovski, the current champion.Is the next one a title opportunity for Lerone Murphy after knocking out Aaron Pico at UFC 319?Who should be Murphy’s next opponent?He will most likely face Alexander Volkanovski. Murphy, despite being the underdog, has proven to be a complete fighter with great potential.Alternative option: Yair Rodríguez. If Volkanovski doesn’t face Murphy, Rodríguez could be an option.
Michael Page vs. Carlos Prates: A Must-See Welterweight Clash
A fight between Michael Page and Carlos Prates would be a dream matchup for fans. Both fighters are known for their knockout power and unique style. The winner of this fight could have the opportunity to face Leon Edwards.
Page and Prates could face each other in October, and the winner could get what they want.
Baisangur Susurkaev vs. Bryan Battle: A Clash with History
If the UFC doesn’t decide to cut Battle, this fight makes sense. Battle had weight issues in his previous fight, and Susurkaev could take advantage of this situation to build his career. Susurkaev could be the “good guy” in this matchup.Alternative option: Nursulton Ruziboev. Ruziboev was scheduled to fight Battle, so the UFC could give him a chance against Susurkaev.
