Khamzat Chimaev is among his personal “Vineland Saga: Homecoming”. As UFC 308 approaches, fans have witnessed a noticeable change in his demeanor. The Chechen fighter appeared more analytical and calm, signaling a change in his ferocious approach as he prepares to step back into the Octagon.
Interestingly, this new strategy paid off spectacularly, allowing him to secure a quick and brutal victory over Robert Whittaker under a circle. With this reinvigorated strength and focus, Chimaev now poses a significant threat to all opponents in the 185-pound division. And Team Khabib seems to be riding that bandwagon, as evidenced by recent comments from AKA’s head coach Javier Mendezwho praised Chimaev’s potential.
Javier Mendez warns 205fers about the threat named Khamzat Chimaev
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While speaking to Submission Radio, Javier Mendez talked about Khamzat Chimaev’s dominant performance at UFC 308. Mendes acknowledged that Whittaker is a well-rounded fighter but after all the undefeated Chechen Wolf took home the prize. this urged Khabib Nurmagomedov former coach to say that ‘Borz‘ can represent a big threat to light heavyweight fighters as well.
he said “He’s the guy I see beating a lot of people even at featherweight. I believe in him so much. 185lbs and light heavyweight is a fun fight and I’ll tell you why, because they’re not good enough. Hamzat will get rid of them immediately. He won’t, won’t play with his food. This guy is amazing, he just eats fast, you know. It’s done, it’s done, and the one thing I noticed about this one was that it was a lot calmer than ever. So that impressed me about him.”
Now that Chimaev has passed perhaps the biggest test of his career, he is in line for the next middleweight title. After his categorical presentation, Chimaev also joined Daniel Cormier for the post-fight interview and announced his insistence on next title contender while praising Whittaker for his legendary status in the division. The Chechen Wolf also stated that other challengers and champions would not want to step into the Octagon with him and called on Dana White to give him the gold. ‘Borzrepeated the same sentiment in the press after the fight.
“It doesn’t matter Shawn or Drikus, I’m just going for the gold,“ Chimaev told reporters including MMA Junkie at the UFC 308 post-fight press conference. “So we’ll see what happens next. i am ready“ He also spoke about Dricus Du Plessis when reporters asked about the last one grappling. “How did I do with this man, Rob, and how did he do?” Chimaev said. “Rob took it down, so if Rob took it down, there is salaam alaikum (on me).”
With Chimaev cementing himself at the top of the division, fans and pundits expect him to fight for the gold next time around. Let’s take a closer look!
What is next for Khamzat Chimaev?
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UFC CEO Dana White recently announced this Sean Strickland will be next in line to try for the middleweight title currently held by Dricus Du Plessis. However, Khamzat Chimaev made a strong statement after his impressive victory and it is clear that the undefeated star has a strong case for a title fight, but the question remains: how will he leapfrog the competition?
Chimaev’s revamped fighting style and return to his former trainer has made him a formidable opponent once again, and few fighters can match his intensity. However, Chimaev is even ready to fight Israel Adesanya in a fight, he considers it a “money fight” if a title shot doesn’t materialize.
Also, a potential rematch between Sean Strickland and Dricus Du Plessis UFC 312 in Australia is rumored, although nothing has been confirmed yet. On top of that, Strickland took to X right after of Chimaev won and said “Get one thing straight… I’m next in line….. It’s been said, it’s been written… Jan/Feb me and Dricus du Plessis are splitting up for scrap.”
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He also pokes fun at the classic “Tarzan” style and writes further on, “Go back to Chechnya and wait a few months…..wait..sorry UAE…you’re not allowed in Chechnya…But hey, crypto scams while you wait.” However, after the events of UFC 308, this situation became less clear. When asked about the next game for the Chechen superstar, Dana White answer “That’s a good question. Call me on Tuesday,” which indicates a positive outlook for his near future.
While Strickland remains steadfast in his path, White’s hesitation suggests that Khamzat Chimaev’s impressive performance may have changed the landscape. As fans eagerly await the next developments in this exciting division, only time will tell if Chimaev secures a title shot sooner or later. Who do you see fighting for the 185-pound title next? Let us know in the comments section below!