Jon Jones advises Khamzat Chimaev on bouncing back from UFC loss

Jon Jones believes Khamzat Chimaev has the tools to rebound from his first career loss but needs to address specific weaknesses before chasing a rematch with Sean Strickland.

Chimaev dropped a split decision to Strickland in May at UFC 328 in Newark after gassing badly following a dominant first round. The Chechen fighter entered as heavy favourite to retain the middleweight title but largely abandoned his wrestling as the fight wore on, per MMA Fighting.

Jones pinpoints cardio and ground defense as Chimaev's path forward

Jones told Red Corner MMA that he was surprised by the result and offered a blueprint for the now former champion. "If I was Khamzat, I would work on my weaknesses," Jones said. "I would say switching up your endurance routine, maybe something different, and spend more time on your back."

The UFC heavyweight champion praised Chimaev's striking and body lock wrestling but noted a glaring hole. "We don't really see him on his back very often," Jones said. "I would go back to the drawing board. I would learn to be comfortable on my back and develop a strong jiu-jitsu game."

Jones added that the mental recovery matters as much as the physical adjustments. "I would imagine losing can change a fighter's mind, their confidence, the way they see themselves," he said. "Focus on your mindset. Losses happen. Sometimes the best version of people comes out after a loss."

Chimaev briefly considered moving to light heavyweight after the defeat but has since committed to staying at middleweight. He remains vocal about landing an immediate rematch with Strickland before the end of 2026, though no fight has been booked.

Original reporting:

• mmafighting.com — Jon Jones offers Khamzat Chimaev advice as he looks to rebound from first loss of his career | MMA Fighting