Chimaev: Middleweight Rival Names Tougher Opponent Than 14-0 Star
- While khamzat Chimaev's undefeated record has made him one of the most feared fighters in the UFC, Reinier de Ridder believes another middleweight contender presents a sterner test.
- Chimaev is scheduled to face dricus du Plessis for the middleweight title at UFC 319 on Aug.
- De Ridder acknowledged Chimaev's prowess but emphasized Imavov's well-rounded skill set.
Reinier de Ridder throws a curveball, suggesting Nassourdine Imavov poses a tougher challenge than Khamzat Chimaev, despite Chimaev’s undefeated 14-0 record. This surprising take comes as Chimaev prepares to battle Dricus du Plessis for the middleweight title at UFC 319. De Ridder, set for a title eliminator against Robert Whittaker, highlights Imavov’s complete skillset, movement, and composure as key factors. News Directory 3 will keep you updated on the developments in the UFC middleweight division. Which matchups will surprise us next? Discover what’s next …
Reinier de Ridder Rates Nassourdine Imavov a “Harder fight” Than Khamzat Chimaev
Updated June 03, 2025
While khamzat Chimaev’s undefeated record has made him one of the most feared fighters in the UFC, Reinier de Ridder believes another middleweight contender presents a sterner test. De ridder suggested that Nassourdine imavov, despite a lower profile since defeating Israel Adesanya, might be a more challenging matchup than Chimaev.
Chimaev is scheduled to face dricus du Plessis for the middleweight title at UFC 319 on Aug. 16. Before that, de ridder and Robert Whittaker will compete in a title eliminator at UFC Abu Dhabi, further shaping the landscape of the UFC middleweight division.
De Ridder acknowledged Chimaev’s prowess but emphasized Imavov’s well-rounded skill set. “The French guy [Imavov] is very complete,” de Ridder saeid. ”He moves very well, is very relaxed, and is smart when he fights. I think that might be a harder fight. But Khamzat is, of course, a great fighter.”
Reinier de Ridder says ther are better fighters than Khamzat Chimaev in the division: “French guy [Imavov] is very complete. He moves very well, very relaxed and smart when he fights. I think that might be a harder fight. But Khamzat is, of course, a great fighter.”
De Ridder also speculated on a potential matchup between himself and Chimaev, envisioning a dynamic grappling contest. “I think it would be a very,very cool grappling match,” he said.”Lots of nice wrestling scrambles. Lots of nice positions to go through.” He added that he would welcome Chimaev gaining rounds against Du Plessis, providing more footage to study.
What’s next
As the UFC middleweight division continues to evolve,the outcomes of Chimaev vs. Du Plessis and de Ridder vs. Whittaker will be pivotal in determining future title contenders and potential matchups.