5 reasons why Khamzat Chimaev could become the next UFC welterweight champion

#4. Khamzat Chimaev is a double threat

Khamzat Chimaev has proven himself to be a dual threat in the octagon. Following his first two victories in the UFC, it was clear the BRAVE CF veteran would be problematic for whichever division he erected his flag in.

After breaking a modern-day record for quickest fight turnaround time, the UFC matched Khamzat Chimaev with his toughest test yet, well, at least it seemed that way on paper.

Gerald Meerschaert is a renowned black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Many thought that if Chimaev employed his usual takedown tactics, then they would be met with tactical resistance. While the method of thinking seemed reasonable, perhaps 'GM3' did not account for Chimaev's willingness to engage on the feet.

In a performance where he didn't absorb a single strike, Khamzat Chimaev demolished Meerschaert. In what was poised to be his toughest test to date, he flew by unchallenged with a one-punch knockout. While the performance pushed Khamzat Chimaev's star to unforeseen heights, an unfortunate COVID-19 diagnosis halted his momentum for much of 2021.

Khamzat Chimaev fighting Gerald Meerschaert

In contrast to his handiwork while standing, the 27-year-old outmaneuvered the No. 11-ranked Li Jingliang, before choking him to sleep. Khamzat Chimaev defeated Li, took his ranking, and showed why he's such a well-rounded double threat in the welterweight division.

With four wildly successful performances, it appears 'Borz' is headed towards title discussions.

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#3. Khamzat Chimaev has impressive fight IQ

Despite his young age, Khamzat Chimaev's cognitive approach in combat makes him a tricky opponent to predict and anticipate. Whether it's striking or grappling exchanges, Chimaev's speed and fight IQ could see him reach the pinnacle of 170-pounds in the UFC.

In fights where the rising upstart feels he may be outstruck, the blue-chip prospect knows where to take the action. Since Meerschaert was known for his grappling, Chimaev was quick to force the issue while standing.

Conversely, in a BRAVE CF appearance earlier in his career, Chimaev faced the then-unbeaten Mzwandile Hlongwa. Interestingly, Hlongwa is known for his knockout potential, having scored four knockouts/TKOs in a total of six fights. During the contest, Khamzat Chimaev dictated the action by lunging for a takedown almost immediately.

Once Chimaev secured the takedown, he anticipated his opponents' movements during grappling exchanges. Similar to Khabib Nurmagomedov, Chimaev's fight IQ is a difficult hurdle to prepare for. While Chimaev has a knack for submissions, it seems the rising star relishes the damage caused by ground and pound too.

With the ability to control where the fight goes, Khamzat Chimaev could become the next welterweight champion, given his overall fight IQ. Since the welterweight is anticipatory when he fights, it will always be difficult to decipher which route he will decide to take the contest.