Khamzat Chimaev mocks Paulo Borrachinha's challenge after victory at UFC 318

Paulo borrachinha e Khamzat Shimaev are UFC highlights. (Photo: Montage/SUPER LUTAS)

In the co-main event of UFC 318, Paulo borrachinha stepped into the octagon with the expectation that, in case of victory, he would launch a direct challenge to his biggest rival in the organization: Khamzat ShimaevSaid and done. The Brazilian dominated Roman Kopylov over three rounds and had his arm raised after a solid performanceIn the post-fight interview, Borrachinha promised to go after the 'wolf' and even stirred up controversy by claiming that the Chechen had sent messages to his wife.

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In response, Khamzat Shimaev used a post on 'X' (formerly Twitter) to defend himself. In an ironic tone, the fighter claimed that it was the Brazilian's wife who sought him out, further increasing the tension between the two.

“She wrote to me, my dear,” Chimaev wrote alongside laughing emojis.

It was she who wrote to me habibi

— Khamzat Shimaev (@KChimaev) July 20, 2025

Borrachinha wins again in the UFC and rekindles rivalry with Khamzat Chimaev

Winless since 2022, Borrachinha returned to winning ways with a solid performance. Always pushing forward and punishing Kopylov's legs, body, and head, the Minas Gerais native imposed himself from the start and made clear his intention to reclaim his place among the top names in the middleweight division. However, things really heated up when the microphone was handed to him.

"Everyone knows I hate Chimaev. He's a jerk! He texted my wife, disrespected her, said things about me to her, but he never said it to my face. Chimaev, you're a coward! I'm here and I'll look for you. I won't stop until I get you!" a visibly excited Borrachinha said, directly challenging the Chechen.

The provocation adds to the history of tension between the two. A confrontation between Borrachinha and Chimaev was even planned in the past, but never materialized.

Khamzat Chimaev faces Dricus Du Plessis for the middleweight title at UFC 319

Before considering the challenge of Paulo borrachinha, Khamzat Shimaev has more pressing matters ahead. The Chechen faces the middleweight champion (up to 83,9 kg), Dricus Du Plessis, in a title fight at UFC 319.