Khamzat Chimaev Blasts Alex Pereira, Accuses Him of “Running Away” After Light Heavyweight Callout
After becoming the new middleweight champion by defeating Dricus Du Plessis, Khamzat Chimaev shocked fans with bold ambitions and unexpected decisions. Following his victory, the Russian surprised everyone by calling out light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira for a potential high-stakes superfight opportunity. Chimaev believed his wrestling skills could overpower Pereira’s striking arsenal and help him eventually secure another championship win.
However, Pereira wasn’t really eager for the matchup and instead shifted his focus to a potential heavyweight move. The fighter called out former champion Jon Jones for a fight at the much-anticipated White House event in 2026. Chimaev didn’t give up and even talked about moving to the heavyweight division to fight the ‘Poatan.’
The heated back-and-forth between both superstars turned personal as Khamzat Chimaev mocked Pereira alongside his coach, Glover Teixeira. During a recent interview, the ‘Borz’ expressed disappointment after failing to receive a preferred response from Pereira regarding their potential matchup.
“UFC doesn’t want to give this guy to me. He said he can fight with [Dricus] du Plessis. He accepted the fight, but now he’s like, ‘Oh, it’s Khamzat, not good fight for me.’ And he’s saying he’s more famous than me, that’s why I’m using his name. He has knockout power and everything, but, brother, ask whoever 99 percent in the world who’s watching UFC, they’re going to tell you who is going to win. That’s why he’s running away,” said Khamzat Chimaev via ESPN.
Chimaev has mentioned that he has no interest in sticking around as the middleweight champion and wants to move up. While there are top contenders like Nasirroudine Imavov, the champ had no intentions to fight a fellow Russian anytime soon. It will be interesting to see whether he gets the opportunity to fight Alex Pereira soon.
Alex Pereira wants his third UFC title
Alex Pereira first became UFC middleweight champion by defeating Israel Adesanya, showcasing extraordinary striking ability and shocking fans with remarkable aggression. He later moved to light heavyweight and maintained similar dominance, eventually capturing the title with decisive performances against elite contenders.
SHOP: Kickboxing Equipment
Now nearing retirement, the Brazilian aims to become a three-division champion, achieving something never before accomplished in UFC history. To realize this ambition, Pereira hopes to face Jon Jones or potentially current heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall. According to Pereira, negotiations with the UFC regarding this historic opportunity are progressing smoothly, keeping his heavyweight aspirations firmly on track.
“I mentioned the White House against Jon Jones. I’ve also even spoke [to the UFC] about a fight at heavyweight for a third belt. It’s not in my control. I have my desires, but I’m also just waiting like everyone else,” said Alex Pereira via Omelette.
Alex Pereira has often shown his intentions to fight at the upcoming White House event in mid-2026. Recently, President Donald Trump mentioned that the event will feature almost 8-9 title fights, including the biggest superstars. Pereira is undoubtedly one of the biggest names on the roster, and fans are expected to see him given his knockout potential.
READ MORE: Why Is KSI Announcing Misfits Signings If Andrew Tate Took His Company?
Recent posts
