Khamzat Chimaev’s first career loss, a split decision at UFC 328 against Sean Strickland, completely rocked the middleweight division. Even the legend Jon Jones was genuinely surprised, telling Red Corner MMA it was “hard to see him lose,” a defeat that caught oddsmakers and analysts off guard when Strickland, a massive underdog, took the title. Jones, a true veteran of the sport, isn’t just watching from the sidelines. He’s got some serious technical and psychological advice for Chimaev.
Jones Breaks Down the Technical Game
Jones, a guy who’s seen it all, didn’t pull any punches when talking about Chimaev’s technical needs. He urged Chimaev to really dig into what’s not clicking, particularly on the ground. We’re talking Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, people! Jones wants him exploring that ground game, spending more time on his back, getting so comfortable there he’s throwing up submissions. Think about it: when do we ever see Chimaev on his back? It’s rare. Jones’s point here makes total sense, making sure Chimaev can be dominant no matter where the fight goes.
And stamina? Oh yeah, Jones hit on that too. Switch up that endurance routine, he said. Find something different. This isn’t just random advice, either. Jones told Red Corner MMA that he personally studies his own weaknesses before every fight. “How can this person beat me? Where is he strong? Where am I perceived to be weak?” That’s the mindset of a champion, and Jones, who’s also coaching U.S. Olympic gold medalist Gable Steveson, helping him to a first-round TKO in his UFC debut, is passing that wisdom down to Chimaev.
The Mindset Overhaul Chimaev Needs
But it’s not all about technique. Jones, a former two-division champion and contender for greatest MMA fighter of all time, also hammered home the mental game. He knows losing can mess with a fighter’s head, their confidence, how they see themselves. “Focus on your mindset,” he advised. “Losses happen. Sometimes the best version of people comes out after a loss.” That’s powerful stuff, straight from a guy who’s been at the top of the game for years.
Chimaev is a beast on the feet, a great kicker, a great boxer, and a great wrestler, especially with that body lock. No doubt about it. But Jones pointed out we barely see him on his back. He’s saying, “Go back to the drawing board,” learn to be comfortable on his back, develop a strong jiu-jitsu game there, and seriously focus on his confidence. It’s a full reset, a mental and physical overhaul for the former champ.
So what’s next for Khamzat? That’s the million-dollar question right now. Before the Strickland fight, there were whispers of a move to light heavyweight, fueled by his struggles making 185 pounds. His brother, Artur Chimaev, even said Khamzat was prepping for a light heavyweight debut against Jiri Prochazka before that middleweight title defense. But post-loss? His team is all about a rematch with Strickland. Will he rebuild at middleweight, or chase a new challenge at light heavyweight? Whatever he decides, you know we’ll be watching every single move.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by CBS Sports.
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