Khamzat Chimaev’s Coach Advises Alex Pereira Against Pursuing a Fight
Khamzat Chimaev’s coach, Alan Finfou, has suggested that Alex Pereira would be unwise to accept a fight with the undefeated UFC middleweight champion. The advice comes as Chimaev continues to seek a matchup with Pereira, despite “Poatan” focusing on the possibility of becoming a three-division champion.
Strategic Disadvantage for Pereira
Finfou explained that a fight with Chimaev presents limited upside for Pereira, while offering significant benefits for the Swedish fighter. “If I glance at the situation from Khamzat’s side, Khamzat vs. Pereira would be the fight that would sell the most and Khamzat would be fighting for another belt,” Finfou told MMA Junkie. He emphasized that Chimaev’s move up a weight class would alleviate pressure and allow him to compete more freely.
Pereira’s Focus on History
According to Finfou, Pereira’s ambition lies in achieving a historic feat – winning a third belt in a third division. “If I were Pereira, I would never accept that fight… Pereira already has two belts and he has the opportunity now to accomplish something that nobody has ever done before in the history of the UFC – win a third belt in a third division,” Finfou stated. He believes Pereira should prioritize this goal over a fight with Chimaev.
Heavyweight Title Opportunity for Pereira
Pereira’s path to a third belt may be opening up due to circumstances in the heavyweight division. With UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall sidelined due to double eye surgery, speculation is growing about an interim title fight between Pereira and Ciryl Gane, as suggested by UFC analysts Michael Bisping and Chael Sonnen MMA Junkie.
Recent Interactions
The potential matchup has been preceded by tension, with footage emerging of Khamzat Chimaev confronting Alex Pereira and his team, reportedly over perceived disrespect YouTube.
Pereira’s Power and Chimaev’s Dominance
A recent discussion on Reddit highlighted Pereira’s striking power and cardio as potential advantages in a fight against Chimaev Reddit. However, a video circulating online shows Alex Pereira seemingly dominating Khamzat Chimaev in a sparring session YouTube.