The Next Two Opponents of New UFC Champion Khamzat Chimaev Officially Revealed

Khamzat Chimaev has taken the UFC middleweight division by storm. After his emphatic and dominant title victory at UFC 319, fans and analysts immediately began speculating about who could possibly challenge the seemingly unstoppable new champion. Now, the UFC has laid out a clear path by scheduling pivotal contender clashes that will determine Chimaev’s next two potential challengers.

Chimaev’s Dominance Raises Big Questions

When Khamzat Chimaev claimed the middleweight championship, the sheer level of dominance left many wondering if anyone could realistically threaten him. His combination of relentless wrestling, suffocating grappling pressure, and explosive striking has broken down every opponent he’s faced. After UFC 319, the burning question was simple: Who’s left to stop Chimaev?

The UFC wasted no time in giving answers. Instead of slowing down, the promotion has already lined up major middleweight battles to create a definitive contender picture for the rest of 2025.

Borralho vs. Imavov – The First Major Test

On September 6 in Paris, a five-round showdown will see Caio Borralho take on Nassourdine Imavov in what has already been billed as a title eliminator.

Borralho, undefeated in seven UFC fights, has built a reputation as one of the most technically sharp and dangerous middleweights in recent years. The Brazilian has steadily climbed the ranks and was even on standby as a potential replacement for the UFC 319 title fight. His mix of striking precision and grappling versatility makes him a dangerous threat for any opponent.

On the other side, Imavov has momentum of his own. The French-Algerian fighter recently shocked the world by defeating former champion Israel Adesanya, a victory that propelled him into the number one contender spot. Fighting in Paris with the crowd behind him, Imavov will look to solidify his place as the division’s top threat.

The stakes couldn’t be higher: whoever wins between Borralho and Imavov will almost certainly earn the first shot at Khamzat Chimaev’s belt.

De Ridder vs. Hernandez – A Backup Path to Gold

Just one month later, on October 18, the UFC will showcase another high-stakes clash between Reinier de Ridder and Anthony Hernandez.

De Ridder, a former ONE Championship double champion, has transitioned to the UFC with impressive results. After beating Robert Whittaker in July, he extended his winning streak to four and firmly established himself as a serious contender. Known for his grappling excellence, particularly his elite jiu-jitsu, De Ridder poses stylistic challenges even for someone as dominant as Chimaev.

However, Anthony “Fluffy” Hernandez may be the more dangerous threat right now. Riding an eight-fight winning streak, Hernandez has become one of the division’s most relentless pressure fighters. His cardio, pace, and submission game have overwhelmed opponents, and his recent performances have earned him recognition as one of the UFC’s most underrated middleweights.

The UFC’s scheduling makes it clear: if anything goes wrong with the Borralho vs. Imavov winner—whether it’s injury, timing, or unforeseen setbacks—the victor of De Ridder vs. Hernandez will be ready to step in as a backup challenger.

UFC’s Clever Strategy for Chimaev’s Future

The UFC’s matchmaking here is deliberate. With Khamzat Chimaev now holding the belt, the organization understands the need to keep the middleweight division exciting and competitive. By staging two top-tier fights within weeks of each other, they ensure that Chimaev’s next defense is secured and that there will always be a backup option in play.

If Borralho or Imavov emerge victorious, the UFC has a clear No. 1 contender. If circumstances delay that fight, the De Ridder vs. Hernandez winner is in perfect position to slide in. Either way, Chimaev won’t be lacking challengers.

Can Anyone Stop Khamzat Chimaev?

Despite these exciting matchups, the biggest question remains: can anyone realistically beat Khamzat Chimaev? His undefeated record and aura of invincibility have intimidated even top contenders.

Imavov brings striking variety and experience against elite competition. Borralho has youth, momentum, and balance in all areas. De Ridder brings world-class jiu-jitsu, while Hernandez thrives in chaos with his relentless pace. Each man offers something different, but whether it’s enough to dethrone Chimaev is another matter entirely.

The Road Ahead for the Middleweight Division

The middleweight division has entered a new era. With Chimaev’s reign just beginning, every contender knows the stakes are higher than ever. For Borralho, Imavov, De Ridder, and Hernandez, the opportunity of a lifetime is within reach.

But opportunity comes with risk. To earn a shot at Chimaev, they’ll have to first survive each other in brutal contender clashes that will test their skill, grit, and championship potential.

One thing is certain: by late 2025, we will know who stands as the most deserving challenger to the UFC’s newest superstar.

Final Thoughts

The UFC’s decision to line up back-to-back contender fights ensures that Khamzat Chimaev’s championship reign will not lack drama or excitement. Whether it’s Borralho, Imavov, De Ridder, or Hernandez, the next challenger will step into the octagon knowing they face one of the most dominant forces in MMA history.

For fans, this is exactly what makes the sport compelling: the chase, the uncertainty, and the question that only time can answer—who, if anyone, can stop Khamzat Chimaev?