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Khamzat Chimaev has wasted no time setting his sights on his next challenge after dismantling Dricus Du Plessis to capture UFC middleweight gold. The undefeated powerhouse is already eyeing a quick turnaround and has called out a new name that could make his first title defense one of the most intriguing matchups in recent UFC history.
Khamzat Chimaev dominates Du Plessis to claim Middleweight crown
At UFC 319, Chimaev extended his perfect professional record to 15-0 with a unanimous decision victory over Du Plessis. Using his relentless wrestling and suffocating control, “Borz” neutralized the South African striker, silencing doubters and stamping his authority on the 185-pound division.
The win not only dethroned Du Plessis but also solidified Khamzat Chimaev’s reputation as a potential long-reigning champion. Many pundits now predict his reign could mirror the dominance once displayed by legends like Anderson Silva and Georges St-Pierre.
Quick turnaround targeted for Abu Dhabi
While some champions prefer to take time off after a title victory, Chimaev has made it clear he wants to stay active. Following his win, the 31-year-old called for a return at UFC 321 in Abu Dhabi on October 25. Known for his “anyone, anywhere, anytime” mentality, the Chechen-born star is eager to test himself against the best middleweights without delay.
The Callout: From DDP to RDR
In a move that caught the MMA community’s attention, Chimaev shifted his focus from “DDP” to “RDR.” On Monday, the new middleweight king dropped a cryptic yet clear message on X (formerly Twitter):
“Rdr ☠️”
The reference was to Reinier de Ridder, the #5-ranked UFC contender (soon expected to drop to #6), who boasts a decorated grappling background.
Reinier de Ridder: The grappling threat
De Ridder, a former two-division champion in ONE Championship, has been touted as one of the most skilled submission specialists in the middleweight division. A Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt, he recently picked up his first UFC main event win by defeating former champion Robert Whittaker in July.
The Dutchman’s grappling acumen makes him a fascinating stylistic matchup for Khamzat Chimaev, whose wrestling has overwhelmed every opponent thus far. If the bout materializes, fans could witness a true battle of elite ground games — a wrestler versus submission artist showdown that could redefine the middleweight hierarchy.
What’s Next for the middleweight division?
While the UFC has yet to officially announce Chimaev’s first title defense, the callout of Reinier de Ridder has already sparked debate among fans and analysts. Would Chimaev’s smothering wrestling prevail once again, or could de Ridder be the man to hand him his first professional loss?
One thing is certain — Khamzat Chimaev isn’t slowing down. After slaying Du Plessis, “Borz” is hungrier than ever to prove why he might just be the most dangerous fighter in the UFC today.
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