Jorge Masvidal Slams Khamzat Chimaev: "That's Not Fighting"

Jorge Masvidal has voiced strong criticism regarding UFC middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev's wrestling-heavy approach and overall fighting style. The former BMF titleholder suggested that Chimaev avoids striking exchanges, preferring to keep opponents grounded out of apprehension.

Chimaev clinched the UFC middleweight championship at UFC 319 last year, defeating Dricus du Plessis. During the five-round bout, "Borz" dominantly used his wrestling to control the South African fighter, logging over 21 minutes of control time, executing 12 takedowns, and delivering 529 strikes, though only 37 were significant.

While Chimaev's performance was statistically dominant, many fans found the wrestling-heavy fight unengaging. Jorge Masvidal clearly shared this sentiment.

Masvidal Criticizes Chimaev's "Not Fighting" Style

Speaking on his podcast, Jorge Masvidal openly criticized Khamzat Chimaev's fighting method. He argued that while "Borz" might be a superior wrestler, his approach often doesn't constitute "real fighting." Masvidal, known as "Gamebred," suggested that Chimaev frequently holds opponents down defensively, without seeking to improve his position or secure a finish, merely running down the clock.

“Just sit there and sniff crotches. You have a chance to strike, but you’re just holding the guy down because you’re scared they’re going to get away. Yeah, you’re a better wrestler, but that’s not fighting.”

Chimaev is set to defend his middleweight title for the first time at UFC 328, where he will face his former training partner and now rival, Sean Strickland.

Masvidal also predicted that Strickland would present a much tougher challenge than Dricus du Plessis. According to the former BMF champion, "Tarzan" will prove difficult to control and hold down, asserting that Strickland will wear down Chimaev and push him in all facets of the fight.

“Strickland might be the first guy that challenges Chimaev in that realm. Even if Chimaev gets a takedown, he’s going to have to work even harder to hold Strickland down.”