Khamzat Chimaev, one of the UFC’s rising stars, has proven his dominance in both the  welterweight  and middleweight  divisions  . However, due to  weight-cutting issues  , Chimaev has now committed to fighting in the middleweight class. This decision has raised an intriguing question: could he defeat  Alex Pereira  , the  light heavyweight champion  , in a hypothetical bout?

Robert Whittaker’s view: Chimaev could win, but not easily

Former UFC middleweight champion  Robert Whittaker  believes that while  Chimaev could win  , it wouldn’t be an easy victory. Whittaker notes that  Chimaev will need to utilize his strength  effectively in a potential matchup, emphasizing his ability to  wrestle  and impose his physicality. However, Whittaker also warns that if Chimaev slows down or tires,  Pereira  could easily  finish him off  with his strikes. “If the fight stays standing, Pereira  will destroy Chimaev  , and this won’t be like the Usman fight, where Chimaev was able to get some clean shots in when Usman got tired.”

Clash of styles: Chimaev’s fight against Pereira’s striking

Chimaev is known for his  dominant wrestling  , able to overwhelm his opponents in close combat with his brutal grappling. On the other hand, Pereira has a  devastating jab  that can end a fight with a single punch. This stark contrast in fighting styles would make their potential fight a spectacle, and the outcome would largely depend on how well each fighter can control the pace and distance of the bout.

The challenges in a hypothetical fight: Will Chimaev survive?

While Chimaev could secure a victory using his  wrestling skills  , he would face immense challenges if the fight extends beyond the early rounds.  Pereira’s knockout power  is some of the most dangerous in the UFC, and his ability to sustain power in the later rounds would be a key factor. Whittaker believes that if the fight goes long, Pereira would eventually take control, especially in the striking exchanges, where  Chimaev could find himself outclassed  .

Khamzat Chimaev’s perspective on Pereira: a dangerous opponent

Chimaev himself has weighed in on the potential fight with Pereira, acknowledging the Brazilian’s ability to knockout. “I’m open to the idea,” says Chimaev, “but when it comes to a stand-up fight, I know he can  knock me out  . He’s done it to everyone and he’s one of the best with the hardest punch.” Chimaev’s self-awareness of Pereira’s punching power highlights the danger he faces if the fight remains on the feet.

Conclusion: Will the fight ever happen?

If Khamzat Chimaev and Alex Pereira ever meet in the Octagon, the  outcome  will depend on a variety of factors. Chimaev could win if he implements his  wrestling game  and controls Pereira. However, if the fight drags on and Pereira stays consistent with his striking,  Chimaev will likely struggle  .