Khamzat Chimaev Eyes Potential Super Fight with Adesanya

On Oct 26, 2024

Undefeated UFC star Khamzat Chimaev has set his sights on a potential super fight with former middleweight champion Israel Adesanya as he prepares to face Robert Whittaker on Saturday (today). In a recent interview, the Chechen-born fighter expressed his interest in the Nigerian-born star, highlighting Adesanya’s global appeal.

“Israel Adesanya… Yeah, Izzy is a good fighter. He’s one of the famous guys in the world right now,” Chimaev said.

This call-out comes at a pivotal moment for both fighters. Adesanya recently suffered a fourth-round submission loss to South Africa’s Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 305 in Perth, while Chimaev remains undefeated in his career.

Also Read: Adesanya Calls Ngannou Best Heavyweight Fighter

Despite leading on the scorecards, Adesanya’s attempt to reclaim the middleweight title was cut short by a rear-naked choke from Du Plessis, which he later called a result of “a dumb mistake.

“I felt strong and defended his takedowns well. I just made a stupid mistake on the ground, and he adapted with the Gable grip and caught me,” Adesanya admitted after his defeat.

The 35-year-old Adesanya, who has defeated several elite fighters in the division, including Whittaker, recently shared his prediction for the Saturday matchup between Chimaev and his former rival.

“I’m going with Rob (Whittaker) for this one, with a late finish in Round 4,” the former champion predicted.

Meanwhile, UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad suggested that Chimaev’s wrestling skills could give him an advantage over Whittaker, similar to Du Plessis’ successful grappling against Adesanya.

As Chimaev focuses on Whittaker, a possible showdown with Adesanya looms if both fighters triumph in their next bouts, adding to the division’s intrigue.

For Adesanya, now considering his next steps, a matchup with Chimaev might offer a chance to reassert his dominance in the division he once ruled.

“I’m disappointed in myself, but I’m also proud. He was the better man on the night, and I respect him for that,” Adesanya said of his loss to Du Plessis.