Khamzat Chimaev is gearing up for what could be his final middleweight showdown next Saturday, as he prepares to face longtime rival Sean Strickland in the main event of UFC 328. The undefeated champion has hinted that this bout might mark his last at 185 pounds, with a potential move up to the light heavyweight division on the horizon.

The light heavyweight division has been searching for a new star since Alex Pereira's jump to heavyweight, making Chimaev's potential move all the more intriguing. But "Borz" has already made one thing crystal clear: don't expect him to fight one of the division's top contenders if he makes the switch.

During a press conference on Wednesday, Chimaev shut down any talk of a future fight with Khalil Rountree Jr., the No. 5 ranked light heavyweight who has been helping him prepare for the Strickland fight. "I'm never gonna fight Khalil. If I'm brother with you, I'm real brother," Chimaev said. "He calls you 'brother' one day and the second day he fights you. I can't do that. I wanna be real."

That stance could throw a wrench into future matchmaking plans at 205 pounds. Rountree is currently one of the leading candidates for a potential interim title fight, especially with Carlos Ulberg recovering from a serious knee injury. But Chimaev's loyalty to his training partner means fans won't see these two square off anytime soon.

Rountree, for his part, has nothing but praise for Chimaev after spending extensive time training alongside him. The American contender described Chimaev as "the best in the world" and warned that the entire light heavyweight division should be worried. "He creates serious problems everywhere," Rountree said, citing Chimaev's striking, grappling, and relentless pace that challenges opponents of any size. "The whole division would be kind of scared if he moves up."

For now, all eyes are on UFC 328, where Chimaev will look to defend his middleweight title against Strickland in what promises to be an explosive main event. Whether it's his last dance at 185 pounds or not, one thing is certain: Chimaev's next move will shape the future of two divisions.