The UFC middleweight division just got SHAKEN UP — and if the rumors are true, we might be seeing Khamzat Chimaev vs. Caio Borralho for an INTERIM TITLE at UFC 317!

Yes, you read that right. With Dricus Du Plessis reportedly dealing with injury concerns, the UFC may not be waiting around — and now we’ve got chaos, callouts, and confirmations flying from all angles. Let’s break it all down.

Khamzat vs. Caio?! UFC Pulls a Wild Card

According to multiple sources, Khamzat Chimaev — undefeated, terrifying, and long overdue for a title shot — is being eyed to headline UFC 317 in a potential interim title fight. But here’s the twist: it’s NOT against Dricus Du Plessis or Israel Adesanya.

It’s Caio Borralho — the rising Brazilian prospect with slick submissions, clean striking, and a LOT to prove.

Fans were confused. Media went into speculation overdrive. But hey — when the middleweight champ is out, and Chimaev is healthy and hungry, you move fast.

Dricus Du Plessis Responds: “I’M STILL THE CHAMP.”

Not one to stay quiet, the current middleweight king Dricus Du Plessis clapped back hard on social media:

“No one’s taking my belt while I’m still breathing. Call it interim, call it whatever — I’ll be there when it matters.”

He also posted a training clip with the caption:
“You want this gold? Come and get it.”

So is Dricus really injured? Or just holding out for a bigger card (maybe UFC 300 rematch vibes?) Either way, it’s clear he’s not thrilled with the UFC’s interim plans.

What This Means for Khamzat and Caio

For Khamzat Chimaev, this is exactly the kind of matchup he needs — a five-round title fight, high stakes, big spotlight. And if he wins? He’ll finally have the gold around his waist that matches the fear his name inspires.

As for Caio Borralho? This is the opportunity of a lifetime. A win over Chimaev would catapult him from dark horse to champion status overnight. But make no mistake — stepping into the cage with Khamzat is not for the faint of heart.

Tom Aspinall vs. ??? — Heavyweight Division Gets Moving

Meanwhile, on the heavyweight side of the chaos — TOM ASPINALL is finally back and officially has a fight lined up! While the opponent hasn’t been confirmed (yet), insiders say it’s a major name and likely to be for a title eliminator — or possibly another interim belt.

Aspinall has been vocal about wanting real fights, not “placeholder” bouts, and it looks like the UFC is listening. Expect an announcement VERY soon.

Fan Reactions: Internet MELTDOWN

Here’s what fans are saying online:

“Caio vs Khamzat?? Didn’t have that on my 2025 bingo card.”
“Dricus ducking? Or just injured again? Either way, the division’s MOVING.”
“Khamzat’s finally getting his belt — interim or not, no one’s stopping him.”
“Give Aspinall Jon Jones already!”

Safe to say, this might be the craziest mid-year shakeup the UFC’s seen in a while.

Final Word: Gold, Gaps, and Grit

The UFC’s not waiting anymore. With injuries slowing things down and stars hungry to fight, Dana White is pushing the gas pedal to the floor. Whether it’s interim belts or official titles, the message is clear:

Fighters who stay ready… get rewarded.

If Khamzat vs. Caio happens, expect fireworks.
If Aspinall headlines, expect carnage.
And if Dricus wants to keep his throne?

He better show up soon… because the kings are coming for his crown.