Khamzat Chimaev solidified his status as a leading contender for the UFC’s pound-for-pound rankings by capturing the middleweight title at UFC 319. The event took place in Abu Dhabi on August 17, 2025, where Chimaev delivered a dominant performance against defending champion Dricus du Plessis, marking his fifteenth career victory and handing du Plessis his first loss in the promotion.
Chimaev’s victory not only secured him the championship but also positioned him as a strong candidate to surpass Ilia Topuria for the number one spot in the UFC pound-for-pound rankings. Topuria currently holds that title after an impressive knockout of Charles Oliveira earlier this summer, which followed his ascent to lightweight champion.
Chimaev’s Rise Through the Ranks
The pound-for-pound rankings aim to gauge a fighter’s overall ability, comparing them across weight classes. Chimaev’s recent accomplishments bolster his argument for top recognition, as he has successfully competed in both the welterweight and middleweight divisions during his five-year tenure in the UFC.
Chimaev debuted in the middleweight category but faced challenges transitioning to welterweight, which limited his activity. Since then, he has made a name for himself at middleweight, notably defeating former champion Robert Whittaker. His ability to move effectively between weight classes demonstrates his versatility and skill set, further enhancing his claim to the pound-for-pound title.
Chimaev’s win at UFC 319 was particularly significant, as it showcased his ability to dominate a top-tier opponent in du Plessis. This performance not only added to his accolades but also set the stage for potential future challenges in the middleweight division.
Future Challenges and Opportunities
The competitive landscape in the middleweight division presents numerous challenges for Chimaev. He is expected to face contenders quickly, with a key matchup approaching next month between Nassourdine Imavov and Caio Borralho. The winner of this bout is likely to emerge as the next challenger for Chimaev’s newly acquired title.
For Chimaev, maintaining his status as a top contender and potentially claiming the pound-for-pound number one spot hinges on continued success against formidable opponents. He has expressed interest in fighting Islam Makhachev, the current lightweight champion, should both fighters secure victories in their next bouts.
Chimaev stated, “It’s the fastest way [fighting Islam Makhachev] to get the pound-for-pound number one.” A win against Makhachev could significantly enhance his standing in the rankings.
The UFC’s ranking panel will ultimately determine Chimaev’s position, but his recent performances and ability to defeat high-caliber fighters make a compelling case for his ascent to the top of the pound-for-pound list. As he prepares for upcoming challenges, Chimaev remains focused on proving himself as the best fighter in the organization.
