Weidman Wants To Serve Chimaev Humble Pie This January

Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC

Rising MMA sensation Khamzat Chimaev is close to booking his next trip to the Octagon

Chimaev, who is 3-0 in UFC competition since making his debut back in July, has been one of the most talked about fighters in the sport over the past few months. The dominance displayed by Chimaev in his first few trips to the Octagon has rarely been seen before, lending a hand to his growing legend.

Needless to say, it has been difficult for UFC officials to book Chimaev against a known contender who’s going to increase his stock even more. Whether it’s been Demian Maia, Stephen Thompson, or Neil Magny, many names have been talked about but none of them have signed the dotted line.

Luckily for all parties involved, former UFC middleweight champion Chris Weidman seems to be coming around to the idea of welcoming Chimaev to the higher ranks. The veteran contender took to social media earlier today to announce his intentions of fighting the undefeated welterweight/middleweight this coming January.

“This guy Chimeav needs some humbling would love to do that. January I’m in! @ufc make this happen,” wrote Weidman.

Chimaev, who has been pushing for a fight with Weidman, was quick to respond and questioned the former champ’s January timeline.

“Whenever you want I will smash you. I don’t understand why you need so long time ? If u are a fighter you must always be ready,” wrote Chimaev.

Weidman, 36, is coming off a unanimous decision win over Omari Akhmedov this past August to capture his first victory at 185 pounds since 2017. While Weidman isn’t the same fighter he was when he held the UFC middleweight title five years ago he’s going to test Chimaev’s wrestling defense and provide UFC the star power they are looking for.

UFC president Dana White discussed the potential middleweight pairing earlier today during UFC Fight Island 6’s pre-fight media scrum (replay HERE), confirming Weidman is one of the guys who they’re speaking with regarding Chimaev’s next fight.

White added that Chimaev’s next opponent should be finalized within the next few days. If UFC is able to coax Weidman into fighting one more time in 2020 he’d be the obvious option. But if the former champion wants to wait until early next year the promotion could look elsewhere in regards to Chimaev.

What say you, Maniacs? Is Weidman the right choice for Chimaev’s next fight?

Sound off!