An in-depth analysis suggests Khamzat Chimaev would face major obstacles if he moves to light heavyweight. The most interesting matchup would be against Jiri Prochazka due to their history. However, Chimaev would lose two crucial advantages at 205 pounds: reach and physical strength, as all fighters there exceed 190cm and possess comparable power. The analysis notes that if Chimaev gets compromised as he did in round two against Strickland or round five against Du Plessis, one or two strikes from above could end everything at light heavyweight. Adapting fully to the new weight would take years, and cutting from 231-238 pounds to make 205 could worsen his health issues, which may stem from chronic overtraining or be congenital. The post concludes that Chimaev faces a critical decision between staying at middleweight with maximum discipline or risking his aura with a potential second consecutive loss.
Saturday, May 9, 2026
