Alan Nascimento, the head coach for UFC middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev, commented on Sean Strickland’s recent online provocations in an interview. The tension between Chimaev and Strickland was a focal point leading up to their UFC 328 bout on May 9th, prompting UFC officials to implement extra security measures, including separate accommodations and the cancellation of traditional face-offs to prevent altercations.
Nascimento’s View on Strickland’s Past Threats
Nascimento noted a significant shift in Chimaev’s demeanor since he claimed the championship belt against Dricus du Plessis at UFC 319 last August. “A champion’s mindset is different,” Nascimento explained. “When someone truly believes they are a champion, something changes, and I can clearly see that in Khamzat.” He elaborated that Chimaev’s maturity grew during the Whittaker camp and intensified after winning the title, which he feels contributes to Strickland’s trash talk having less impact.
Strickland escalated his rhetoric with threats involving firearms and racist remarks directed at Chimaev’s Chechen heritage. He warned of resorting to violence if Chimaev and his entourage approached him improperly. Nascimento recounted showing the clips to Chimaev, who reportedly reacted with amusement, dismissed Strickland as a “clown,” and promptly returned to his training.
The coach contrasted this composed reaction with Chimaev’s past behavior. “If the things Sean Strickland has been saying online had happened four years ago, someone would be in jail,” Nascimento stated in an interview with MMA DAILY.
This reflection on “four years ago” aligns with Chimaev’s early UFC career, recalling incidents like the chair-throwing episode involving Darren Till during training sessions. At that time, sparring partners recalled Chimaev repeatedly tapping out Strickland during rounds at Extreme Couture. Nascimento attributes the current difference to Chimaev’s champion mentality. Chimaev’s team had anticipated Strickland’s fighting style, including his aggressive striking and takedown defense, based on their prior encounters.
Khamzat Chimaev vs. Sean Strickland at UFC 328
UFC organizers enhanced security protocols following concerns raised by Joe Rogan regarding the potential risks associated with pre-fight face-offs. Dana White confirmed heightened security for the event in New Jersey. Chimaev himself downplayed the threats during media day, asserting his role as the hunter.
Nascimento expressed optimism about the fighter’s journey. “We are embracing the journey and giving our best every day,” he said. “Our job is to go there and perform at our best.” He hopes for a clean face-off, stating, “I hope at least one face-off happens without problems because the fans deserve that.”
