5 ranked UFC middleweights Khamzat Chimaev could defeat

#2. No.7-ranked UFC middleweight Jack Hermansson

Jack Hermansson is one of the better grapplers in the UFC's middleweight division. 'The Joker' has submitted numerous high-level opponents such as Kevlin Gastelum, Gerald Meerschaert, and David Branch.

UFC Fight Night Jacare v Hermansson

He has also used his grappling prowess to control Edmen Shahbazyan throughout their fight in his most recent UFC win. With all of this being said, one could make a solid argument for Hermansson being able to hold his own against Chimaev.

However, Hermansson and 'Borz' have previously competed against each other, in Freestyle Wrestling. Chimaev comfortably defeated 'The Joker,' and there is little to indicate that the result would be different in an MMA fight. The submission game of Hermansson could certainly offer up some difficulties to Chimaev, but ultimately you have to favor 'Borz' in the matchup.

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#1. No.4-ranked UFC middleweight Paulo Costa

Paulo Costa is a physical specimen with incredibly aggressive striking, and outside of his loss to Israel Adesanya, has shown impressive durability. 'Borrachina' has overcome some solid opposition, including Yoel Romero, Uriah Hall and Johny Hendricks.

UFC 217: Johny Hendricks vs. Paulo Costa

However, these fights have rarely resulted in Costa's grappling defense being truly tested. He has also shown a tendency to gas out in the later rounds of his fights. This could be a recipe for disaster against a fighter with a top game like Khamzat Chimaev.

Costa would certainly have a chance to catch 'Borz' in the early goings of the fight. His raw athleticism may be enough to fend off the takedown threat early on and, should he manage to begin unloading strikes against Chimaev, there is a strong chance the undefeated hype train could be derailed.

However, if the fight hits the mat, it seems unlikely that Costa would be able to escape the clutches of 'Borz.' The brutal pressure and ground strikes would quickly sap on Costa's cardio, likely resulting in the second stoppage loss of 'The Erasers' professional MMA career.

UFC Fight Night: Khamzat Chimaev vs. Rhys McKee