Former UFC champion Borrachinha sets up Khamzat Chimaev for the title fight; find out more.

Borrachinha in victory over Kopylov at UFC 318 (Photo: Instagram)

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Paulo Borrachinha is experiencing a great phase in his career after defeating Azamat Murzakanov by technical knockout (head kick) at UFC 327.. Since his triumph at the event, held last Saturday (11), in Miami (USA), the Brazilian's next step in the organization has been speculated and, this time, Belal Muhammad |, former welterweight champion (up to 77 kg), indicated that a fight against Khamzat Shimaev It's a natural path.

In Belal's view, Borrachinha could face Chimaev after the duel against Sean StricklandFor the former champion, the 'Wolf', who He makes his first middleweight (up to 83,9 kg) title defense against 'Tarzan' at UFC 328.On May 9th, he will "destroy" his rival. With a possible victory, the Russian would qualify to move up a division and compete for a potential vacant light heavyweight title (up to 93 kg).

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"I think it ends up being Khamzat (Chimaev) versus (Paulo) Costa for the vacant light heavyweight belt, after Khamzat destroyed (Sean) Strickland," he said. Belal Muhammad | on his X profile, formerly Twitter.

I think it ends up being khamzat vs costa for the 205 vacant belt after khamzat smashes Strickland

Belal Muhammad | (@bullyb170) April 13, 2026

Muhammad's comment comes amidst the situation of Carlos Ulberg, the current undisputed light heavyweight champion. The New Zealander won Jiri Prochazka He heroically won the vacant title in the UFC 327. For your information, 'The Black Jag' suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during the fight, and yet... He found space to knock out his opponent in the first round., ending the fight for the fast track.

After medical evaluation, it was reported that full recovery, in surgical cases, It can take between nine and twelve months., leaving the division inactive for a long time. It is in this context that Belal believes a fight between Paulo borrachinha e Khamzat Shimaev A possible vacant light heavyweight title could happen.

However, it is important to say that Carlos Ulberg He does not intend to relinquish the belt and, in an interview with journalist Ariel Helwani, He pointed to Magomed Ankalaev as an ideal opponent to test his level.. Therefore, if the scenario is confirmed, Belal Muhammad |The fight could be for the interim belt, not the vacant one.