Khamzat Chimaev explains how strong Dricus Du Plessis was after beating him at UFC 319.
‘Borz’ proved his doubters wrong when he was able to dominate Du Plessis over five rounds and maintain his stamina while keeping his opponent grounded for the majority of the fight.
It was a surprise to UFC viewers to see Chimaev completely take Dricus out of the fight and win the UFC 319 main event with ease, considering how unorthodox the champion is.
The South African had previously said how he would approach Khamzat in the first round, but he ended up trying to defend his takedowns, which he explained he never wanted to do.
Khamzat Chimaev tells reporters how strong Dricus Du Plessis was after a dominant UFC 319 win
But it seemed from a fan’s perspective that the crucifixes and overall control meant he was able to easily avoid the strength of ‘Stillknocks’, which past opponents had highlighted as a great weapon.
Following his title win, he was asked about the strength of DDP compared to how past challengers had spoken about him.
In his post-fight scrum answer, he said: “No, not like people are talking about.
“(I) could take him down like anyone else.”
Avoiding a stand-up exchange for the MMA star was the best part of the game plan, as the team suspected a more even fight in a striking exchange with the former middleweight champion’s awkward style.
‘The Wolf’ also responded to reporters’ questions about his control time and why he held how he was able to hold his 31-year-old rival for an extended period of the contest.
Chimaev said: “That’s just to have fun with my friends. I take them in this position, holding them for 25 minutes, one hour.
“Some guys, nobody can take me down, hold me down.”
Khamzat Chimaev confirms ‘the best’ training camp plans for future fights after UFC 319 win
What made a difference for the Chechen compared to his past camps was the new setup with Sam Calavitta in California.
His training, alongside Arman Tsarukyan, was heavily focused on his cardio, which is why TJ Dillashaw, a coach in the camp, suggested it as one of the changes needed to achieve victory in the fight.
On his new team, the champion revealed what his plans were moving forward, and if any changes were going to be made.
He said: “No, I’m going to work with this guy. He’s one of the best guys I have worked with for cardio. So, that’s crazy training over there. So, thanks to him.”
This could be a great move for his career going forward, considering he did not tire out towards the end, and given that he is eyeing a defense of the belt in Abu Dhabi this October.