Former champion predicts the toughest opponent for Khamzat Chimaev's reign: 'He's strange'

Chimaev focused before fighting in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC

Despite being one of the most dominant athletes in the UFC today, Khamzat Shimaev It can still be tested by other fighters. At least that's the opinion of... Kamaru UsmanDuring the latest edition of the 'Pound 4 Pound' podcast this Thursday (12), the former welterweight champion (up to 77,1 kg) showed interest in seeing how Borz would adapt to face the American.

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According to Usman, Strickland's unorthodox and defensively responsible style could pose difficulties for the Chechen, who is known for his aggressiveness and physical presence.

“Strickland is extremely difficult to hit. He has a peculiar style where he simply relaxes, blocks, and leans back. Khamzat has that weapon he uses to dominate everyone, but when it doesn't work, you're forced to show your entire arsenal,” he stated.

Kamaru Usman says Sean Strickland's tricky style could test Khamzat Shimaev 👀

“Strickland is extremely tricky to hit. He has this weird style where he just relaxes, blocks, and leans away.”

“Khamzat has that one tool he uses to dominate everybody, but when that doesn't work… pic.twitter.com/r4UvsHESpC

— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) March 12, 2026

While praising Chimaev's dominance in grappling, the Nigerian also acknowledged that the champion is capable of posing a threat in various areas of the fight.

"Khamzat also knows how to exchange blows standing up. He faced..." Gilbert Burns "And he took him down a few times. If he changes that mentality and fights like a free MMA fighter, we might really see his full arsenal," he concluded.

Usman has already fought Khamzat Chimaev.

Usman's statement comes from experience. The Nigerian Nightmare has already had the opportunity to share the octagon with both Strickland and Chimaev, at very specific points in their respective careers. Even as a prospect, he defeated the American by unanimous decision in 2017.

Kamaru Usman (left) fighting against Khamzat Shimaev (dir.) in UFC 294. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

Many years later, he was also unanimously defeated by Borz shortly after losing the rematch for the welterweight title (up to 77,1 kg) to Leon edwards, in October 2023.