Invincible? Khamzat Chimaev promises to scare Sean Strickland and downplays his own abilities: 'Nothing will work'

Chimaev promotes UFC event. Photo: Reproduction/Facebook/UFC

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Finally, Khamzat Shimaev will put the middleweight (up to 83,9 kg) belt on the line for the first time. In the main event of UFC 328, an event scheduled to take place this Saturday (9), in New Jersey (USA), the Russian champion will face forces with Sean Strickland, one of his greatest adversaries. And, never one to mince words, the feared 'Borz' proceeded to intensify the already hostile rivalry.

In the program 'Countdown to promote the UFC 328Chimaev, brimming with confidence, categorically stated that the outcome of the highly anticipated duel against the American is already decided, even before it takes place. And the athlete's stance is understandable. Besides holding the belt, the Russian is considered by many to be a phenomenon in MMA, is undefeated, and, not surprisingly, is seen as the overwhelming favorite to win.

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Therefore, 'Borz', aware of his skill, doesn't shy away from the responsibility, embraces his status for the fight, and promises to terrorize Strickland. So much so that the champion doesn't seem worried about his opponent's game plan, based on intense pace and a high volume of strikes.

“I love my job. Who is the best? Who will win? That excites me. Everyone has their chance and he can try whatever he wants, but it won't work with me, because I am…” Khamzat Shimaev"I always knew I could beat anyone. If you're the best, you beat anyone. Everyone can be confident, but when the octagon closes, they'll have to stay there with me for a long time," said the UFC champion.

“If they’re scared, great. If not, I’ll make them scared. Strickland only has a jab and a right hand. If we only fought boxing, I could finish this guy. But I never think about my opponent’s style. Why should I think about what he’s going to do? He only has one thing: only hope. I’m going to crush this guy,” he concluded.

Chimaev's fighters in MMA

Khamzat ShimaevBorz, 31, is one of the best and most fearsome MMA fighters today. The Russian began his career in the sport in 2018, debuted in the UFC in 2020, and became middleweight champion in 2025. Before that, 'Borz' also excelled in the welterweight division (up to 77,1 kg).

In this modality, the athlete competed in 15 fights and won them all, 12 by stoppage (six by knockout and six by submission). His main victories were against Dricus du Plessis, Gilbert Durinho, Kamaru Usman e Robert whittaker.