A rival coach has claimed that the UFC is "begging" **Khamzat Chimaev** to move up in weight, suggesting the promotion wants him to change divisions as part of future matchmaking plans. The report details how this coach is plotting a revenge plan and views Chimaev’s potential move as central to those ambitions. While not an official announcement, the story indicates serious behind-the-scenes discussions that could affect both the welterweight and middleweight rankings if Chimaev changes class. Chimaev’s divisional status has long been a point of speculation due to his success in multiple weight categories. Any eventual move could reshape title contention scenarios and create new marquee matchups at the top of the division he enters.
Reports are circulating that the UFC has been actively lobbying Khamzat Chimaev to move up in weight class, according to a rival coach who claims the promotion is essentially "begging" the fighter to change divisions. The claim, which has not been officially confirmed, emerged amid talk of behind-the-scenes matchmaking discussions that could carry significant consequences for both the welterweight and middleweight landscapes.
Chimaev, known by his nickname "Borz," currently holds the number-one ranking in the middleweight division and sits tenth in the pound-for-pound standings. The 32-year-old, who represents the United Arab Emirates and trains out of Allstars Training Center in Sweden, carries a professional record of 15 wins and 1 loss. He is a physically imposing presence at six-foot-two with a 75-inch reach, and his numbers reflect a complete, relentless style — landing 4.04 significant strikes per minute at a striking accuracy of 60 percent, while also threatening with 5.29 takedowns per 15 minutes and 1.8 submission attempts per 15 minutes. His ability to succeed across multiple weight classes has kept divisional speculation alive throughout his career.
The unnamed rival coach, according to the report, is developing a revenge plan and sees Chimaev's potential move as central to those ambitions, though the nature of that plan was not detailed.
Why it matters
- Chimaev is currently ranked first at middleweight, so a departure would immediately open up title contention at 185 pounds
- A move to light heavyweight or another division could reshape the rankings picture wherever he lands
- His multi-dimensional game — elite striking, relentless grappling — makes him a threat regardless of weight class
- The story remains unconfirmed, and no timeline or official statement from the UFC or Chimaev's camp has been reported
