Islam Makhachev believes Sean Strickland could give Khamzat Chimaev a much tougher fight than people expect if the bout reaches the later rounds at UFC 328.
Makhachev said Strickland’s ability to constantly get back to his feet could create problems for Chimaev over five rounds, pointing to what he’s heard from fighters who have trained with the former middleweight champion at Xtreme Couture.
“I asked Ramazan Kuramagomedov when we talked not too long ago. We were on the same flight to Europe.
And he said: ‘I sparred with him a lot. He never stays down. I am taking him down and he’s getting up over and over again. Back on his feet and striking.’”
Makhachev also reflected on meeting Strickland years ago at the UFC PI, describing him as respectful and interested in learning about Dagestani culture and family values.
“People act normal when you talk in person. But when the camera starts rolling and the pressure is building up, they can’t hold themselves back as we do.”
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Islam Makhachev believes Sean Strickland could give Khamzat Chimaev a much tougher fight than people expect if the bout reaches the later rounds at UFC 328.
Makhachev said Strickland’s ability to constantly get back to his feet could create problems for Chimaev over five rounds, pointing to what he’s heard from fighters who have trained with the former middleweight champion at Xtreme Couture.
“I asked Ramazan Kuramagomedov when we talked not too long ago. We were on the same flight to Europe.
And he said: ‘I sparred with him a lot. He never stays down. I am taking him down and he’s getting up over and over again. Back on his feet and striking.’”
Makhachev also reflected on meeting Strickland years ago at the UFC PI, describing him as respectful and interested in learning about Dagestani culture and family values.
“People act normal when you talk in person. But when the camera starts rolling and the pressure is building up, they can’t hold themselves back as we do.”
Follow @redcorner.mma for more exclusive content ✅
