Andrew Ravens
Khamzat Chimaev has long targeted a showdown with Alex Pereira, but the grappling coach of the undefeated middleweight champion believes the Brazilian striker should pursue an entirely different path.
Alan “Finfou” do Nascimento, a key figure in Chimaev’s corner, recently spoke with MMA Fighting and offered surprisingly candid advice for the reigning light heavyweight king. Instead of risking his aura in a stylistic nightmare against “Borz,” Nascimento suggests Pereira should chase a third divisional title in the heavyweight ranks.
Nascimento acknowledges that a bout between the two superstars would generate significant revenue, but he feels the historical implications of a heavyweight move are far more important. The grappling specialist pointed out that Pereira is already the financial A-side in almost any matchup he takes.
Therefore, accepting a fight against Chimaev, even with a second title on the line for the Chechen-born fighter, does not offer the same historical reward as capturing a third championship belt. Nascimento noted that achieving champ-champ-champ status is something the organization has never seen, making it the ultimate capstone for a combat sports career.
Despite the advice against the matchup from his perspective, Nascimento remains confident in his pupil’s ability to make the 205-pound limit. He noted that moving up to light heavyweight requires proper time to gain weight safely and cannot be done overnight. However, if the UFC brass presented the opportunity and Chimaev was willing, the team would comply and proceed with the necessary preparations.
The coach praised both athletes for their mindsets, having risen from difficult beginnings to reach the top of the sport. When breaking down the hypothetical clash of styles, Nascimento predicted a classic striker-versus-grappler dynamic where the athlete who successfully dictates the location of the fight will emerge victorious.
He noted that if Chimaev failed to secure a takedown, he would run a serious risk of being knocked unconscious by Pereira’s signature left hook. Conversely, if Chimaev managed to ground the kickboxer, the chances of a submission victory would skyrocket.
While acknowledging the unpredictability of combat sports—such as the fantasy scenario of Pereira out-grappling Chimaev—Nascimento firmly believes the outcome hinges entirely on which man can impose his strategy first.
