Khamzat Chimaev challenges Alex Pereira on social media

UFC star Khamzat Chimaev took to social media to directly call out light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira. In a pair of strongly worded tweets, Chimaev asked Brazilian fans to urge Pereira to respond, while promising a quick finish if they fight. His posts have stirred up discussion in the MMA world and opened the door to what could become a massive showdown between two of the UFC’s most dangerous men.

Chimaev targets Pereira — and he’s not backing down

Khamzat Chimaev has never been shy about calling out top names, and his latest social media blast was no exception. On Friday evening, he posted on X (formerly Twitter):

“All Brazilian fans – tell this boy if you’re not scared, tell him to fight.”

He followed up quickly with a second tweet directed at Pereira:

“Let’s go White House. Don’t worry, I will finish you fast, Alex Pereira.”

The tweets went viral in the MMA community, with thousands of reactions and fans speculating whether this could be the beginning of the UFC’s next major rivalry.

This isn’t the first time Chimaev and Pereira have clashed

Chimaev’s sights have been set on Pereira for some time. After Pereira’s brutal finish over Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 320 in July 2025 (CET), Chimaev publicly expressed interest in moving up to face him.

In fact, back in November 2025, reports emerged that Chimaev and Pereira had agreed in principle to a charity grappling bout under UFC’s BJJ format. However, that potential match-up never materialized, and the public is still left wondering whether they’ll ever meet in any form.

Chimaev has repeatedly stated that he’s willing to move to light heavyweight to challenge Pereira — a bold move considering he currently holds the middleweight title. The verbal war between them, though, seems very real.

How the MMA world is reacting

Social media has lit up with reactions. Some fans praise Chimaev for daring to go after Pereira despite the size difference. Others feel he’s just stirring hype with no real intention of making the jump.

So far, Pereira hasn’t responded directly to the new tweets, but he has previously stated that he fears no one and is ready to fight anyone the UFC puts in front of him. Behind the scenes, sources indicate that UFC matchmakers may already be exploring this matchup for a possible summer 2026 card — though no official plans have been confirmed.

Several fighters, including Beneil Dariush, have weighed in. Dariush stated in an interview that he believes Chimaev would “run through” Pereira if the fight hits the ground. This has only intensified the debate on how such a clash would play out.

What’s at stake in a potential fight?

Chimaev captured the UFC middleweight title after a dominant win over Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 319 in August 2025. Undefeated and highly versatile, the Chechen-Swedish star has become one of the most discussed figures in the sport.

Pereira, meanwhile, has made history as one of the few fighters to win UFC titles in two weight divisions. Known for his knockout power and elite striking, he has dismantled top contenders like Jamahal Hill and Magomed Ankalaev in devastating fashion.

A clash between Chimaev and Pereira would pit grappling vs. striking in one of the most anticipated stylistic matchups the UFC could offer. Whether it’s at middleweight, light heavyweight, or catchweight, this fight would sell big — both as a main event and a test of legacy.

What are the experts saying?

MMA analysts are split. Some argue Chimaev’s wrestling would overwhelm Pereira, neutralizing his striking. Others point out that Chimaev has never faced a striker as powerful as Pereira — and one clean shot could end it.

Former UFC champion and commentator Daniel Cormier had this to say:

“If Chimaev takes him down early, it could be a short night. But if Pereira lands first with that left hand, it might be lights out.”

A potential win for Chimaev would open the door for two-division title ambitions, while a win for Pereira would solidify his status as one of the most dangerous finishers in UFC history.