Khamzat Chimaev has rapidly emerged as a formidable contender in the UFC middleweight division, and his recent performance at UFC 308 has only solidified this status. With an unblemished record of 14 wins and no losses in mixed martial arts (MMA) and a perfect streak of 8-0 in the UFC, Chimaev showcased his immense skill by dominating former champion Robert Whittaker, achieving a first-round submission victory. This impressive display not only highlighted his grappling strength but also raised eyebrows about his potential matchups against current titleholders.
Former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman, who faced Chimaev at UFC 294, has shared his thoughts on the rising star’s abilities. During their bout, Usman experienced Chimaev’s strength and grappling prowess firsthand, being taken down and controlled for an entire round. Despite ultimately losing the fight by majority decision, Usman’s respect for Chimaev’s capabilities is palpable. His reflections on their encounter provide invaluable insight into Chimaev’s tactics and effectiveness inside the Octagon.
Usman’s comments resonate with those in the fight community. He described Chimaev as “hell in that first round,” emphasizing his size, strength, and agility, reminiscent of a welterweight fighter. Usman expressed complete confidence in Chimaev’s ability to take down the current middleweight champion, Dricus Du Plessis, citing his first-round intensity as a significant factor that could shift the bout in Chimaev’s favor.
Nevertheless, Usman highlighted the challenges that Chimaev may face against Du Plessis, who boasts a commendable record of 22 wins and 2 losses in MMA. Usman described Du Plessis as an incredibly tough competitor, unyielding in his pursuit to maintain control and remain competitive throughout the fight. This raises critical questions about whether Chimaev can not only take Du Plessis down but also secure a finish against such a resilient opponent.
While Usman believes that Chimaev can keep Du Plessis down during the fight, he remains uncertain about the possibility of a finish. This uncertainty points to the unpredictable nature of MMA, where even the most dominant fighters can struggle against opponents who possess extraordinary toughness and tenacity.
Chimaev’s latest victory has attracted the attention of not just Du Plessis but potentially also Sean Strickland, who previously held the title of No. 1 contender. The outcome of these matchups may dramatically alter the hierarchy in the middleweight division, with Chimaev poised to potentially leap over Strickland in the title shot line. As the UFC landscape continually evolves, Chimaev’s momentum could lead to a thrilling championship bout that captures the essence of high-stakes MMA competition.
Khamzat Chimaev stands at the precipice of superstardom in the UFC middleweight division. With his relentless drive, impressive physical attributes, and the respect of established fighters like Kamaru Usman, he is positioning himself as a major threat to the reigning champion, Dricus Du Plessis. The coming months will undeniably be pivotal in shaping the future of the UFC middleweight landscape.