Chimaev mocks former champion and provokes Borrachinha after UFC 319: 'He's all talk'

Khamzat Shimaev with the belt on UFC 319 (Photo: Instagram/UFC India)

The dominant victory over Dricus Du Plessis No. UFC 319 marked the beginning of the era Khamzat Shimaev as middleweight champion (up to 83,9 kg). But outside the octagon, the Chechen is already starting to face his first attacks. One of the loudest came from Sean Strickland, former champion of the category, who took to social media to challenge Chimaev, stating that he would be the only one capable of facing him on the ground over five rounds.

The response came shortly after the event, at a press conference. Showing no concern, Chimaev mocked Strickland's statements. The new champion recalled past training sessions between the two at the Xtreme Couture gym in Las Vegas, USA.

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"I've knocked this guy down so many times. He knows it. He talks like it's easy, but it's not. He couldn't even stand up to me in the standup. He only talks about it, he lives off of it," said the champion.

The provocation didn't stop there. When commenting on Sean Strickland, Chimaev still found space to poke fun at another well-known name in the division: Paulo borrachinhaThe Brazilian, who has already exchanged barbs with the Chechen on other occasions, has been training alongside Strickland, which has served as ammunition for yet another provocation.

"Now he trains with... What's his name? Borrachinha? Buratino? I don't know. It doesn't matter. I'd beat them both together, no problem," he said.

Undefined scenario for Chimaev's first defense

With the belt in hand, Chimaev now awaits the determination of his next challenger. Among the names being considered is the winner of the duel between Caio Borralho e Nassourdine Imavov, which happens in the UFC Paris, and even a possible return of Israel adesanya, depending on the division's movement.

Meanwhile, Strickland faces obstacles outside the Octagon. The American is suspended indefinitely after storming the cage during a regional event and assaulting a fighter. The punishment could delay his plans to regain the title.