There was no doubting the disdain Gerald Meerschaert had for the double-booking of opponent Khamzat Chimaev at UFC Vegas 11. Chimaev, a hot prospect with two wins in just ten days to start his UFC career, had been promised a shot at Demian Maia (at welterweight) should he get past middleweight Meerschaert.
It was really unprecedented territory for a UFC rookie. A testament to the potential the promotion saw in the young fighter, with his Khabib-like threats to “smash” opponent after opponent.
The pressure early from Chimaev was apparent, and he landed the very first shot, which was all it took. A hard straight right hand put Meerschaert out cold and no follows up were needed. Meerschaert was out, Chimaev had his third win, and it’s on to bigger or better things for him.
Suddenly, a bout with the likes of Maia, slowly aging out of the fight game, seems almost not competitive enough. Following the bout, Chimaev told Jon Anik that he didn’t know when he’d be back in action, adding “only Dana knows that.” Khamzat was more focused on a Performance of the Night bonus, which seems likely. He did say, however, that he’s ready for everyone.
Official Result: Khamzat Chimaev def. Gerald Meerschaert by KO, Round 1, 0:17
