Khamzat Chimaev is arguably the most feared fighter on the UFC roster right now.
The 14-0 Russian phenom has run through almost all of his opponents since joining MMA’s premier promotion in 2020.
Khamzat Chimaev will fight Dricus du Plessis for middleweight gold at UFC 319 on August 16.
A few weeks prior, Reinier de Ridder and Robert Whittaker will face off in a title eliminator at UFC Abu Dhabi.
Is Khamzat Chimaev the toughest fight at 185lbs?
Khamzat Chimaev’s perfect record and relentless fighting style have earned him a fearsome reputation.
However, Reinier de Ridder believes there’s another middleweight contender that would give him a tougher fight.
Nassourdine Imavov has faded into obscurity since knocking out Israel Adesanya at UFC Saudi Arabia in February.
Still, the first man to beat Bo Nickal believes he may be the best fighter currently competing at 185lbs.
“Not by me,” De Ridder said when asked if Chimaev is the most ‘feared’ UFC middleweight.
“I think we don’t really talk about him as much, but the French guy [Imavov] is very complete.
“He moves very well, is very relaxed, and is smart when he fights. I think that might be a harder fight.
“But Khamzat is, of course, a great fighter.”
Reinier de Ridder previews future Khamzat Chimaev fight
Reinier de Ridder went on to reveal how a fight between him and ‘Borz’ would play out.
“I think it would be a very, very cool grappling match,” he predicted.
“Lots of nice wrestling scrambles. Lots of nice positions to go through.
“I’d be happy if he gets some rounds in with Dricus, so I have some more to study.”