Khamzat Chimaev, the undefeated UFC middleweight champion, recently trained with the legendary former UFC champion Demetrious Johnson. Johnson, a Hall of Famer, expressed his astonishment at Chimaev’s immense physical power during their intense sparring sessions. Despite his significantly smaller stature, Johnson initially believed he could contend with Chimaev, but quickly grasped the sheer magnitude of his strength and size. He referred to Chimaev as “a machine,” conveying deep respect for the fighter and his unbeaten team. Their training showcased the mutual admiration between these two elite athletes.
In other news, the highly anticipated clash between Khamzat Chimaev and Sean Strickland is scheduled for UFC 328. Strickland earned his title shot by defeating Anthony Hernandez. UFC veteran Colby Covington predicts that Chimaev will assert dominance by leveraging his wrestling prowess to take down and submit Strickland, opting for grappling over a striking exchange. Chimaev is renowned for his relentless pressure and ground game, while Strickland remains confident in his takedown defense. The existing animosity between the two further heightens the anticipation for this showdown.