Khamzat Chimaev reportedly received a $50,000 bet offer from a fellow fighter ahead of his upcoming title defense. The challenger, Nassourdine Imavov, is lined up as Chimaev’s first potential opponent after his return, though Chimaev has admitted he isn’t particularly eager for that matchup. In the meantime, Chimaev’s long-term ambitions seem to be steering him toward light heavyweight, even as he must pause for several months due to a planned operation.
A separate storyline involves Joaquin Buckley, who has publicly proposed a wager of his own if Chimaev can stay on his feet for a full round without using wrestling. Buckley’s offer amounts to $50,000, with a combined $100,000 on the line if Nassourdine Imavov matches it.
Looking back, Chimaev’s title-winning performance at UFC 319 stood out as one of the year’s most dominant showings. Yet his decisive victory over Dricus Du Plessis drew some criticism for seeming overly cautious, as observers felt he did not push for more decisive offense while in control.
As the middleweight champion prepares for a 2026 return against Imavov, Buckley has expressed concern about a repeat of that conservative approach. In a resurfaced Instagram clip, Buckley questioned why Chimaev would train striking if he doesn’t intend to use it in the ring.
Historical note: Chimaev previously sparked a backstage moment in 2022, nearly stepping into a confrontation with Buckley just before UFC 273. What happened backstage underscored Chimaev’s readiness to take on challengers and his unwillingness to back down from a fight, a trait Buckley witnessed firsthand.
Join the discussion: How many fights should Chimaev have at middleweight before moving up a division, and who would be the most compelling matchup for his next opponent at 185 pounds? Share your thoughts in the comments and weigh in on whether you think he should stay at middleweight longer or pursue light heavyweight rematches or new challenges.
Would you rather see Chimaev focus on refining his striking further before any divisional move, or should he pursue bold, high-risk battles to accelerate his legacy? Tell us your view in the comments.
