The UFC middleweight division has become one of the most unpredictable, showcasing constant shifts in dominance over recent years. In just two years, the division has seen four different champions, highlighting the competitive nature of the 185-pound weight class. Going into 2025, the unpredictability shows no signs of slowing down and Khamzat Chimaev stands out as the top candidate.
Khamzat Chimaev is currently one of the most popular fighters in the UFC roster and has a massive hype around him. Former middleweight champion Robert Whittaker recently talked about the ‘Borz’ on his podcast. According to the Australian superstar, Chimaev might take the top spot in the division by the end of 2025.
I would have to say Chimaev. I just think his grappling is so good.
Robert Whittaker via MMArcade
Robert Whittaker recently fought Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 308 and was dominated by the Chechen warrior. It took Chimaev just a few minutes to get a hold of Whittaker and submit him with ease. The ‘Reaper’ was helpless and didn’t know how to defend against the relentless grappling pressure of his opponent.
🤝👀Robert Whittaker believes Khamzat Chimaev will finish 2025 year as a UFC champion.
“I just think his grappling is so good.”
🎥 @MMArcadePodcast ▫️ pic.twitter.com/Z2M1QDHvlh
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) December 31, 2024
Given his form and recent health issues, fans were doubtful about Chimaev’s performance against Whittaker. However, the undefeated fighter managed to silence all his critics in a brutal fashion. Now, the ‘Borz’ has his eyes set on the upcoming UFC 312 title fight between Sean Strickland and champion Dricus Du Plessis.
Khamzat Chimaev predicts Sean Strickland vs. Dricus Du Plessis
Dricus Du Plessis became the UFC middleweight champion last year by beating Sean Strickland at UFC 297. The South African fighter defended his title against former champion Israel Adesanya in a hard-fought win a few months ago. While DDP wanted to fight Khamzat Chimaev, the UFC had other plans and Strickland got his title rematch.
Khamzat Chimaev predicts the upcoming middleweight title fight (via Imago)The fight is scheduled to take place at UFC 312 in Sydney, Australia and Chimaev will keep a close eye on the fight. Going into the fight, the South African is a fan favorite to defend his title. In an interview, Chimaev also picked the champion to win the clash.
I think now it’s going good for Du Plessis. I think he’s more motivated. Getting more money and he happy with that.
Khamzat Chimaev via Michael Bisping’s YouTube channel
Fans are eagerly anticipating a war of words as Sean Strickland prepares to face Dricus Du Plessis. Known for his sharp tongue and unapologetic insults, ‘Tarzan’ thrives on stirring the pot. However, DDP has proven he’s no stranger to verbal sparring, often matching his opponents with clever comebacks.
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