The rise of welterweight fighter Khamzat Chimaev does not appear to bother Israel Adesanya. While ‘Borz’ has even challenged Adesanya, ‘The Last Stylebender’ believes Chimaev should first justify himself as a potential middleweight fighter.

In Hotboxin’ podcast with Mike Tyson, Adesanya said, “When the dog barks at the moon that’s normal, but when the moon barks at the dog that’s something special. So I was like all right, this guy fights at welterweight, he fought in Middleweight one time and he’s fought like a low-ranking guy. Definitely, he can beat some middleweights but I’m like show me something.”

“Show me something he’s like never. His last fight was impressive, and I said I might not like you, but if I’m impressed by what you do I”ll give you props, Yeah, he’s a beast, but he’s a beast at 170lbs”.

Adesanya feels Chimaev is a strong welterweight fighter, but not an efficient middleweight contender, as he has only fought a low-ranking middleweight contender once in his professional MMA career.

Read more: The Lesser Known Journey of Israel Adesanya Before UFC

He also praised Chimaev on his recent fight UFC 267  with Jingliang, calling it “impressive.” It appears that if Chimaev can perform a high-ranking middleweight opponent, ‘The Last Stylebender’ would consider him a viable opponent.

At UFC 273,’ Borz’ is all set to face Gilbert Burns, who many consider will be his biggest challenge yet.

Khamzat Chimaev vs Burns will be special

UFC 273 Chimaev vs Burns is the most anticipated welterweight match. While Chimaev rose to 11th place with his outstanding effort, ‘Durinho’ is ranked #2 in the welterweight rankings.

Burns won seven of his last eight bouts and stands as a tough challenge in Chimaev’s way to the welterweight title. Chimaev had previously called out welterweight champion Kamaru Usman for a title match.

Usman defeated ‘Durinho’ at UFC 258 via TKO at 34 seconds in the third round. Therefore, it is surprising to see Burns being trained by ‘The Nigerian Nightmare’ for UFC 273.

Watch this story: Khamzat Chimaev Vs. Gilbert Burns Stats Record Reach Height And More

UFC 273 is very important for the welterweight division, as the winner should be next in line to challenge for the welterweight title.

Will Chimaev defeat Burns at UFC 273? Can he move up to middleweight and defeat Adesanya? What do you think? Let us know in the comments.