Following his loss at UFC 328, Hamzat Chimaev is considering moving up to light heavyweight, with a potential matchup against Jiri Prochazka being the most interesting option. However, analysts express serious concerns about his chances at 205 pounds. Chimaev would lose two key advantages that have defined his success: his reach and physical strength, as light heavyweights are typically over 190cm tall and equally powerful. His documented cardio issues, which surfaced in round two against Strickland and round five against Du Plessis, could be more dangerous at light heavyweight where 1-2 shots from top can end fights. The weight cut from 232-238 pounds to 205 may also create health risks given his history of systemic issues. The analyst suggests Chimaev faces a crucial decision between staying at middleweight with strict weight management or risking his aura with a potential second consecutive loss in a new division.
Saturday, May 9, 2026
