Chimaev focused before fighting in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC
Khamzat Chimaev 's first career defeat continues to reverberate behind the scenes at UFC. Defeated by Sean Strickland in May of this year, the former middleweight title challenger (up to 83,9 kg) had details of his preparation revealed by his coach, Murad Bichuev, who pointed to a change of plans as one of the main factors for the 'Wolf's' below-par performance.
In an interview with Red Corner MMA, Bichuev revealed that Chimaev had been preparing to face former light heavyweight champion (up to 93 kg), Jiri Prochazka . According to the coach, the team's entire physical strategy was geared towards a fight in a higher weight class, focusing on gaining muscle mass. The change of opponent, however, made the Chechen refocus on middleweight and undergo a more intense weight cut than initially planned.
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“Khamzat was gaining weight for the fight against Prochazka, but then they said it would be against Strickland. The weight cut was a problem because he was initially going to face Prochazka in the 93 kg category. So, we were mainly focused on his physique. He started gaining muscle mass,” Bichuev explained.
In the coach's view, the change in planning ended up compromising part of Chimaev's preparation, forcing him to make adjustments in a short time. The strain caused by the weight loss process is believed to have influenced the fighter's performance during the bout against Sean Strickland , who won by judges' decision, ending his rival's undefeated streak in professional MMA.
“Then, we were told that he would have to fight Strickland in the 84 kg category. We didn't have much time and we faced more problems than we expected,” the coach added.
Despite his first career setback, Khamzat Chimaev 's team remains confident in the fighter's recovery. 'The Wolf' continues to be one of the top names in the middleweight division and seeks to return to the octagon to get back on the winning track and put himself back in contention for the category's belt.
Khamzat Chimaev's Fighters
Chimaev at the UFC press conference. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC
Khamzat Chimaev , 32, is considered one of the most talented athletes of the new generation in the UFC and one of the most dangerous names in the middleweight division. Known for his combination of high-level wrestling, physical strength, and extremely aggressive style, the Chechen quickly gained prominence in the organization for the dominance he imposed on his opponents and his ability to control fights on the ground.
The athlete began his professional MMA career in 2018 and made his UFC debut in 2020. Throughout his career, Chimaev built a record marked by major victories over names such as Gilbert Burns , Kevin Holland , Kamaru Usman , Robert Whittaker , and Dricus Du Plessis.
Despite a dazzling start, the fighter suffered his first UFC defeat against Sean Strickland in May, a result that highlighted the need for adjustments to his strategy and pace management during fights. He has 15 wins and one loss in his career.
Even with the defeat, Chimaev continues to be considered one of the most complete fighters on the roster. With a game based on takedowns, constant pressure, and great finishing ability, the Chechen seeks to regain his place among the top names in the division and prove that he can still reach the top of the organization.
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