Shamil Gaziev revealed in an interview with Jaydon Cable that he currently weighs 140 kilograms. With UFC Perth approaching, the heavyweight needs to cut approximately 20 kilograms to make weight for his upcoming bout. The significant weight cut has generated concern among fans, though some believe he will successfully make the required weight. Gaziev will need to manage this substantial reduction carefully to compete at the event. The post prompted mixed reactions about whether such a large cut is manageable in the remaining time.
Shamil Gaziev has disclosed that he currently sits at 140 kilograms, meaning the heavyweight contender faces a cut of roughly 20 kilograms before UFC Perth — a revelation that has stirred considerable debate among fans following an interview with Jaydon Cable.
Gaziev, 36, competes out of Bahrain under the KHK MMA banner and holds a professional record of 14 wins and 3 losses. Ranked eleventh in the UFC heavyweight division, the six-foot-four orthodox striker carries a 78-inch reach and has built his reputation on crisp, accurate stand-up work, landing 2.62 significant strikes per minute at a 47 percent accuracy clip. He also contributes on the ground, averaging 0.93 takedowns per 15 minutes.
The heavyweight limit sits at 265 pounds, or approximately 120 kilograms. Coming in 20 kilograms above that mark with the event on the horizon has prompted genuine concern from observers, though a portion of the fanbase has expressed confidence that Gaziev will manage the reduction.
Why it matters
- A 20-kilogram cut is an unusually large ask at heavyweight, where athletes rarely endure the kind of severe weight manipulation common in lighter divisions.
- Failing to make weight would carry ranking and potential contractual consequences for the number-11-ranked contender.
- Gaziev's striking-based style depends on athleticism and timing; an incomplete or damaging cut could affect his output on fight night.
The mixed reaction reflects broader questions about weight management at the top of the division, where Gaziev is positioned to push further up the rankings with a strong performance in Perth.
