Chimaev Won't Change Style After Nurmagomedov KO

Khamzat Chimaev plans to keep wrestling despite watching Umar Nurmagomedov get knocked out cold while attempting a takedown.

Nurmagomedov entered his bout against Song Yadong as a heavy favourite but ate a perfectly timed uppercut while shooting, the flush counter putting the Dagestani out. The finish raised questions about whether grapplers should reconsider their approach when facing strikers with knockout power.

Chimaev Sticking With Wrestling Game Plan

Chimaev told Red Corner MMA that he sees no reason to abandon what brought him success. The Chechen fighter drills takedowns daily and plans to use them in the cage regardless of knockout risk. "Unfortunately, Umar lost, but I believe he will be back stronger," Chimaev said, per Sherdog. "He is a guy with vast experience who's been doing his thing since he was a kid. But as for myself, being knocked down or KO'd, I can't foresee it. I will keep doing my job. I drill takedowns every day in the gym, so why shouldn't I do the same in the Octagon?"

The middleweight contender noted that fluky knockouts can happen to anyone in MMA and does not view Nurmagomedov's loss as a reason to alter his wrestling-first strategy. Chimaev acknowledged the unpredictability of the sport but remains confident in his grappling-heavy style.

Nurmagomedov now holds a 20-2 record following the upset loss to Song.

Reported via:

• Sherdog — Khamzat Chimaev won’t change wrestling style after Umar Nurmagomedov KO