Beneil Dariush Backed Khamzat Chimaev Light Heavyweight Move
UFC fighter Beneil Dariush believes Khamzat Chimaev would find success in the 205-pound weight class.
Updated on Oct. 11, 2026 in Mixed Martial Arts
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UFC fighter Beneil Dariush has publicly supported the idea of Khamzat Chimaev moving to the light heavyweight division. Dariush based his assessment on observing Chimaev sparring with heavyweights.
Why it matters
A transition to the 205-pound division could help Chimaev avoid the difficult weight cuts he experienced at the 185-pound middleweight limit. This move may also improve his cardiovascular performance as he pursues his goal of winning three championship belts.
Khamzat Chimaev is aiming to secure three total championship belts across weight classes. He is currently navigating his career following a middleweight title loss in May 2026.
The players
Beneil Dariush
Beneil Dariush is a professional UFC fighter who competes in the lightweight division.
Khamzat Chimaev
Khamzat Chimaev is a prominent professional mixed martial arts athlete competing in the UFC.
Sean Strickland
Sean Strickland is a professional UFC fighter and the former middleweight title holder.
Nassourdine Imavov
Nassourdine Imavov is a professional UFC fighter currently ranked as the No. 1 middleweight contender.
The details
Beneil Dariush suggests that Chimaev's potential in the higher weight class is evident during training sessions against heavier opponents. Chimaev has expressed interest in a rematch with Sean Strickland, who is currently involved in a contract dispute regarding pay.
Timeline
May 2026: Khamzat Chimaev lost the UFC middleweight title.
Season Trajectory
This move follows the pattern set by the UFC's multi-division champion initiatives for fighters seeking to capture titles in different weight classes. Such transitions significantly shift the competitive landscape for contenders like No. 1 middleweight Nassourdine Imavov.
Chimaev's move would likely impact the middleweight rankings currently headed by Nassourdine Imavov. It also shifts the potential future matchup landscape regarding Sean Strickland's championship status.
The takeaway
Fighters often explore higher weight classes to alleviate the physical toll of extreme weight cuts. This change in division could provide Chimaev with the necessary stamina to sustain his pursuit of three championship titles.
Further reading
Find more analysis on athlete movement in the Mixed Martial Arts section.
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