Tentatively on the books per UFC President Dana White, a matchup between Chimaev and former title challenger Demian Maia was being targeted for November. But currently, the fight is not yet signed, and White stated its possible the possibility could even be booked for another fight before Maia.
Khamzat Chimaev chose to step on Stephen Thompsons first ever social networks callout on Tuesday.
All due regard @Leon_edwardsmma, which I have a great deal of for you, I have actually been stating I would like to battle you for a while now! It makes good sense and would be a terrific compare.
I think that was my very first Twitter call out ever. man that felt odd. #FirstTimeForEverything– Stephen Thompson (@WonderboyMMA) September 22, 2020
Around 10 hours later, the unbeaten Chimaev, days after his impressive 17-second knockout win over Gerald Meerschaert at UFC Vegas 11, called an audible by challenging Thompson to a battle instead.
Earlier in the day, “Wonderboy” doubled down on his interest to deal with Leon Edwards via Twitter, a request he made in a current interview with MMA Fighting.
“Hes certainly a hard man and somebody you have to keep your eye on for sure– someone like me, particularly,” said Thompson.
Chimaev has burst onto the UFC scene with 3 finishes in a 66-day period. “Borz” completed John Phillips with a Darce choke in the 2nd round of his octagon debut at UFC on ESPN 13 in July before turning around 11 days later on with a first-round TKO win over Rhys McKee. The 26-year-old made his 3rd straight performance benefit following his one-punch KO over a 44-fight veteran in Meerschaert.
Thompson, on the other hand, is looking to return to action for the very first time since an unanimous choice win over Vicente Luque at UFC 244 in November. When talking to MMA Fighting, he stated Chimaev is definitely on his radar as the standout continues his meteoric increase in both the middleweight and welterweight divisions.
#FirstTimeForEverything– Stephen Thompson (@WonderboyMMA) September 22, 2020
Chimaev has burst onto the UFC scene with three finishes in a 66-day period. “Borz” finished John Phillips with a Darce choke in the 2nd round of his octagon launching at UFC on ESPN 13 in July before turning around 11 days later on with a first-round TKO win over Rhys McKee.
