Kamaru Usman says Khamzat Chimaev needs dedicated head coach

Former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman believes Khamzat Chimaev needs a dedicated MMA head coach if he wants to reach the next level.

Usman, who held the 170-pound strap for three years before losing to Leon Edwards, weighed in on Chimaev's coaching situation after the Chechen's close decision win over Sean Strickland at UFC 328. According to Sherdog, Usman suggested that Chimaev's current setup lacks the kind of focused leadership that separates championship-calibre fighters from contenders.

Why Chimaev's corner setup matters now

Chimaev trains primarily at Allstars Training Center in Sweden and has worked with various coaches throughout his career, but Usman reportedly sees a gap in his development. The 30-year-old middleweight has shown flashes of dominance in wrestling and striking, yet struggled with cardio and fight IQ in his last two outings against Robert Whittaker and Strickland.

Usman's comments come as Chimaev sits in limbo after the Strickland win, with no clear title shot on the horizon. The UFC has not announced his next opponent, though matchups with Dricus du Plessis or a rematch with Whittaker have been floated.

Chimaev is expected to return to the cage by late summer, with a potential spot on the UFC's September Abu Dhabi card still in play.

Source: sherdog.com