Alex Pereira Challenges Khamzat Chimaev with Surprising Offer; Chimaev Replies

Alex Pereira has extended an intriguing challenge to Khamzat Chimaev, setting the stage for a potential clash in the UFC. The two fighters have been developing a rivalry, with Chimaev showing interest in moving up to the 205-pound category to face Pereira. This interest intensified after Pereira knocked out Magomed Ankalaev to reclaim the light heavyweight title.

Pereira’s Conditions for the Fight

Pereira and his coach Glover Teixeira outlined two key conditions for their matchup with Chimaev. Teixeira emphasized that Chimaev needs to prove himself first. “First of all, he needs to get there,” said Teixeira. He expressed the desire to see a fight against a big name like Jon Jones before any bout with Chimaev. Teixeira also declared his confidence in Chimaev’s abilities, stating, “But Chimaev fights that guy there. If he fights that guy, I’ll bet my house on it.”

Skill Challenge Proposal

Pereira suggested a skill-based challenge, emphasizing grappling. Known for his striking, Pereira expressed his willingness to engage Chimaev in a grappling contest. “That guy says he wants to fight with me, he’s gotta get out there, understand?” Pereira remarked. He proposed, “Let’s fight in grappling. And another thing, we can fight in the UFC. UFC is doing BJJ, right? Let’s do that then, let’s make it happen.”

Charity as a Motivator

Adding a significant twist to the potential fight, Pereira mentioned that any earnings from the bout would be donated entirely to charity. “I don’t even know how much I’ll make – good money, though, you know who I am, the money is good—that money will be donated 100 percent to charity. That work for you?” he stated directly to Chimaev.

Chimaev’s Response

Chimaev did not take long to respond, addressing the challenge on social media. His reaction appears to highlight the growing tension between these two fighters.

• Fighters Involved: Alex Pereira, Khamzat Chimaev, Glover Teixeira
• Key Events: Pereira’s knockout of Magomed Ankalaev, Chimaev’s victory over Dricus du Plessis
• Proposed Fight Conditions: Grappling challenge, charitable donation of fight earnings

This rivalry continues to escalate, keeping MMA fans eagerly awaiting the next chapter in Pereira and Chimaev’s potential showdown.