The MMA world is currently obsessed with the idea of a collision between two of the UFC’s most terrifying forces: the middleweight king Khamzat Chimaev and the light heavyweight wrecking ball Alex Pereira.
While fans are clamoring for this cross-divisional war, Chimaev’s longtime mentor, Alan Finfou, has a surprising message for the Brazilian champion.
In a recent interview, Finfou didn’t just welcome the fight; he gave “Poatan” some free career advice that might save his legacy from a major setback.
A Legacy at Stake: The Case for a Third Belt
Alex Pereira (13-3-0) has already achieved what most fighters only dream of, capturing titles in two different weight classes in record time.
However, the path to becoming the undisputed “GOAT” (Greatest of All Time) doesn’t necessarily lead through Chimaev.
Finfou suggests that Pereira has a much bigger fish to fry.
“If I were Pereira, I would never accept that fight,” Finfou stated. “Pereira already has two belts. He has the opportunity now to accomplish something nobody ever did before in the history of the UFC: win the third belt in a third division.”
For Pereira, a jump to heavyweight to challenge for a third title would be a historic first.
Defending his light heavyweight crown against a grappling specialist like Chimaev is a high-risk, “low-reward” move compared to the lure of triple-champ status.
Why the Matchup is a Nightmare for ‘Poatan’
It is no secret that Alex Pereira’s kryptonite has historically been high-level wrestling.
While his defensive grappling has improved significantly under the tutelage of Glover Teixeira, he has never faced anyone with the relentless, “smash” style of Khamzat Chimaev.
Chimaev (15-0-0) is coming off a dominant victory where he showcased his elite ground game.
According to data, Chimaev maintains a 100% win rate with a finishing percentage that strikes fear into the heart of any striker.
Khamzat Chimaev Stats at a Glance:
- Pro Record: 15-0-0
- UFC Record: 9-0-0
- Wins by Submission: 6
- Wins by KO/TKO: 6
- Significant Strike Accuracy: 57%
Finfou believes that while Chimaev would be moving up in weight, he would be doing so “more relaxed,” whereas Pereira would be forced to defend against a challenger who possesses the exact tools to neutralize his “Left Hook of Doom.”
‘Khamzat, Ciao!’ – The Strategy for Greatness
Finfou’s advice to the light heavyweight champion is simple: focus on the heavyweights.
“For Khamzat, it’s great to try to win a second belt. For Pereira, it’s amazing to try the third. If I were Pereira, I would say, ‘Khamzat ciao! I’ve been a GOAT.’ I would go for the third belt,” Finfou explained.
By choosing a heavyweight run over a middleweight challenger, Pereira avoids a stylistically dangerous fight while chasing a milestone that would likely never be repeated.
Will the UFC Make it Happen?
Despite the coach’s warning, the UFC thrives on superfights. Chimaev has been vocal about his desire to move up, even suggesting he would meet Pereira at heavyweight if that’s what it takes to get the deal done.
However, with names like Tom Aspinall and Jon Jones lingering in the heavyweight conversation, Pereira’s next move will define his place in history.
If he listens to the camp of his rival, he might just steer clear of the “Borz” and head straight for the history books.
What’s Next for Khamzat Chimaev?
While Chimaev waits for a response from the “Poatan” camp, he remains the most avoided man in the middleweight division.
Whether he stays to defend his 185-pound strap or makes the leap to 205, one thing is certain: the wrestling machine from Chechnya is ready to dismantle whoever holds the gold.