Khamzat Chimaev is confident that he knows what is next after achieving title glory at UFC 319.
It may have taken longer than many had anticipated when he burst onto the scene with two wins in just 10 days in 2020, but Chimaev finally sits on a UFC throne.
Following a difficult period of health issues and a weight miss that brought his pursuit of the welterweight title to an end for the time being, 'Borz' has completed a quick rise to the top at 185 pounds. And the culmination of that journey came at UFC 319, where Chimaev dominated Dricus du Plessis.
As is often the case after title fights, the Chechen star did not have long to enjoy his crowning before questions arose regarding the next step in his career. Fortunately, the new champion already has a good idea of what lies ahead.
The charging Anthony Hernandez was cageside for Du Plessis vs Chimaev, having recently extended his winning streak to eight with a brutal display against Roman Dolidze. But of the middleweights present in Chicago, it does not seem as though 'Fluffy' is at the front of the line.
Also with a front-row view of things at United Center was Caio Borralho, who weighed in as the backup fighter for the main event on Friday. It won't be long until the Brazilian returns to the scale, as he is set to headline UFC Paris in early September against France's own Nassourdine Imavov.
During an appearance on ESPN's UFC 319 Post Show, Chimaev made it clear that he sees that clash as a title eliminator.
"For sure," Chimaev said when asked if Imavov vs Borralho will determine the next number one contender.
"Both guys are strong guys and good fighters. I have worked with both guys, they know my level in grappling and how good I am.
"I know how good they are, they are good fighters," Chimaev added.
More than just knowing the fight that will determine his opponent, the newly crowned middleweight king may already have a date to prepare for.
Amid worries over his activity as champion, Chimaev wants a quick turnaround for UFC 321 in Abu Dhabi this coming October. While that appeared to be an ambitious plan given the wars Du Plessis is often in, 'Borz' emerged from UFC 319 relatively damage-free.
The champ recently got the green light for that goal during the post-fight press conference, with Dana White willing to grant Chimaev's wish.
"I just had a kid fight Tuesday and wanted to turn around and fight here. Abu Dhabi? I would definitely consider."