Khamzat Chimaev's Grappling Coach Advises Alex Pereira Against Superfight

Alan "Finfou" do Nascimento, Khamzat Chimaev's grappling coach, has advised Alex Pereira against pursuing a potential superfight with Chimaev. Instead, Nascimento urges Pereira to focus on a historic move to the heavyweight division.

Current Fighter Trajectories

Chimaev claimed the 185-pound championship in 2025 by defeating Dricus du Plessis and plans a title defense in June. Meanwhile, Pereira is considering a move to the heavyweight division to potentially become the first fighter to win UFC titles in three different divisions.

Nascimento's Counsel: Prioritizing Legacy

Nascimento stated that if he were part of Pereira's team, he would advise the Brazilian fighter to move up to heavyweight. He emphasized the financial benefits and the historical legacy of achieving a third UFC title, which he described as an unprecedented accomplishment in the organization's history.

"A fight for a third belt would be a greater achievement for Pereira's legacy than a title defense or a non-title superfight with Chimaev."

Nascimento clarified that his advice was not due to risk assessment concerning Chimaev, but rather based on the unique opportunity for Pereira to make history.

Chimaev's Light Heavyweight Ambitions

Nascimento mentioned that Chimaev would require significant preparation time to gain weight for a move to the light heavyweight division. However, he indicated that Chimaev's team would be willing to prepare for a chance at the 205-pound championship, even if Pereira was not the reigning champion.

While acknowledging the significant financial draw of a Chimaev vs. Pereira bout, Nascimento stated that a move to light heavyweight for a title fight would be prioritized over a non-title fight against an opponent who does not offer similar financial or championship incentives.

Potential Fight Analysis: A Clash of Styles

Nascimento recognized both Pereira and Chimaev as exceptional athletes with strong mentalities. He predicted that a fight between them would be a fascinating clash of styles, with both fighters attempting to impose their preferred combat zones.

He suggested that Chimaev would face a high risk of being knocked out if he failed to secure a takedown, while Chimaev would have a strong chance of submission if he achieved a dominant grappling position.