Khamzat Chimaev has had a significant rise in the UFC with success across two divisions. ‘Borz’, who currently competes in the UFC’s welterweight division, has not dismissed the possibility of returning to 185-pounds. The rising sensation expressed his thoughts on current UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya.

Since becoming champion, Israel Adesanya has been criticized for his performances and not-so-exciting fights. It is a stark contrast to the reactions he got when he rose as a contender. In a recent interview, Chimaev explained why the 185-pound champ might be going through this phase.

‘Borz’ believes fame and money have affected Adesanya’s hunger. “I don’t know what happened with him last time. He (fought) better before. Now, maybe he’s not that hungry, you know?”

Lack of hunger is an issue Conor McGregor is criticized for. The middleweight champion is second to McGregor in the list of the highest earning UFC athletes and has been seen living a luxurious lifestyle, similar to that of the Irishman. This change in lifestyle can be attributed to the recent performances of Adesanya.

The undefeated fighter added, “He’s driving like, crazy cars, and this sh*t — has a lot of money. It makes some people — they change. When you’re hungry, you fight crazy, like he did before. Now, I don’t know. He just makes the points and wins the fights. It’s boring.”

While Chimaev continues to march forward in the welterweight division, he expressed his desire to compete at 185-pounds and issued a surprising call-out.

Khamzat Chimaev called out Alex Pereira

Alex Pereira is the only man who can claim to have knocked out Israel Adesanya. The Brazilian has faced Adesanya twice and has been victorious on both occasions. Since signing with the UFC, he has been on a meteoric rise and continued that with a win over Sean Strickland at UFC 276. However, after the fight, he was met with a call-out by Khamzat Chimaev.

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Chimaev quote tweeted a clip of Pereira’s hand being raised. While sharing the clip, ‘Borz’ expressed his desire to share the cage with the Brazilian and wrote, “I’m want to fight with this guy @ufc @danawhite let’s make it”

However, since then, things took a turn for Chimaev. The rising 170-pound star is now set to face Nate Diaz in the main event at UFC 279. A win over Diaz could cement Chimaev’s place as a potential title contender in the welterweight division.

Why Did Dana White Have to Convince Khamzat Chimaev to Not Retire?

The paths of Khamzat Chimaev and Alex Pereira haven’t crossed yet. However, we might see the two fighters compete in the future. It will be interesting to see if Chimaev can continue his dominant performances against the elite of the 185-pound division.

What do you think about Chimaev’s assessment of Israel Adesanya? Do you agree with it? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

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