Khabib Nurmagomedov Advises Chimaev to Focus on Striking Ahead of UFC 319 Showdown
Former UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov has weighed in on the highly anticipated UFC 319 clash between Khamzat Chimaev and middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis. Speaking as a seasoned fighter and now a respected coach, Khabib suggested that Chimaev should rely more on his striking rather than his wrestling to gain an early advantage.
Khabib, known for his dominant grappling style during his undefeated career, believes Chimaev’s stand-up game could be the key to success—especially in the first two rounds. He cautioned, however, that pushing too hard early could drain Chimaev’s energy, especially since he has never competed in championship rounds.
“Fighting smart is essential,” Khabib said. “Chimaev needs to avoid burning out too soon and maintain enough stamina for the later rounds.”
While Khabib refrained from making a fight prediction, another UFC legend, Israel Adesanya, did not hold back. The former middleweight champion predicted a late finish win for du Plessis. Adesanya added that if Chimaev hopes to win, it must happen in the early rounds—likely the first or second.
Chimaev, who has demonstrated versatility by shifting between wrestling and striking in past bouts—including against Gilbert Burns and Kamaru Usman—is now aiming to capture UFC gold in a new weight class. However, du Plessis remains a tough and unpredictable opponent, determined to retain his title.
Both Khabib and Adesanya agree: the UFC 319 bout promises to be a high-stakes, high-skill encounter where any mistake could prove costly.
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