Overview
- Chimaev told ESPN he is targeting his first title defense for March after Ramadan, with a jump to light heavyweight planned immediately afterward.
- He named Nassourdine Imavov as the probable opponent for his defense but said no fight is finalized and noted their prior friendly training relationship.
- Chimaev wants Alex Pereira at 205 pounds and accuses the light heavyweight champion of avoiding him, rejecting offers for a grappling match as outside their job.
- He rebuffed coach Glover Teixeira’s talk of a hotel confrontation, insisting any showdown should occur under a UFC contract.
- Citing pay as a key motivator, Chimaev said big‑name bouts can significantly raise his purse, while Pereira’s stated interest in heavyweight options leaves the matchup uncertain.