Dana White revealed that Khamzat Chimaev approached him after the fight and expressed his desire to move up to light heavyweight. Chimaev told White, "I want to move up in weight. I don't want to fight in this weight class anymore." White admitted he hasn't thought about specific matchups for Chimaev at 205 pounds, but acknowledged that the move to light heavyweight would be interesting. The UFC president's comments indicate Chimaev is seriously considering leaving the middleweight division.
The day after UFC 328, Dana White confirmed that Khamzat Chimaev personally approached him and made clear he wants to leave the middleweight division and compete at light heavyweight.
Chimaev, known as "Borz," told White directly, "I want to move up in weight. I don't want to fight in this weight class anymore." White acknowledged the conversation publicly, admitted he has not yet identified specific opponents for Chimaev at 205 pounds, but described the potential move as interesting.
The 32-year-old from the United Arab Emirates currently sits at number one in the middleweight rankings and tenth in the pound-for-pound standings, carrying a professional record of 15-1. Fighting out of Allstars Training Center, the six-foot-two orthodox wrestler and striker has built his reputation on relentless pressure, landing 4.04 significant strikes per minute at a remarkable 60 percent accuracy while also averaging 5.29 takedowns per 15 minutes. That combination has made him one of the most feared fighters on the roster at 185 pounds.
Why it matters
- Chimaev is the number one middleweight contender, so his departure would reshape the division's title picture immediately.
- At light heavyweight, a 75-inch reach and elite grappling credentials would travel well, though he would face naturally larger opponents for the first time at this level.
- White has not ruled out the move, leaving the UFC's matchmaking plans at both 185 and 205 pounds uncertain until a formal decision is reached.
Saturday, May 9, 2026
