Acclaimed MMA coach Eric Nicksick, known for coaching the likes of former UFC champion Sean Strickland, recently shared his tactical insights on how Robert Whittaker, or any fighter for that matter, could defeat the unbeaten Khamzat Chimaev.
“I think the pace; I think somebody that can drag it into deep waters that we saw with (Kamaru) Usman, that we saw in a three-rounder with Gilbert Burns, right? In a five-rounder, it’s always going to be the question mark because of Khamzat’s style of always trying to finish fights and get guys out of there right away,” Nicksick told Red Corner MMA.
Chimaev will take on Whittaker on 26 October 2024 at UFC 308. The former middleweight champion is known for his insane durability, cardio and high level fighting.
“Can that be his Kryptonite? Is a guy who’s durable, who can last, get through rounds one and two, and then where does Khamzat fare in the deeper rounds? That is the question mark. We haven’t seen the unknown. That’s all we’re asking, and how well he does in these situations,” Nicksick said.
Khamzat has two fights going the distance
Chimaev quickly gained attention for his aggressive fighting style and ability to finish fights early, often overwhelming his opponents with his wrestling abilities. In fact, only two of his 13 pro MMA fights have gone the distance.
Khamzat made his UFC debut in 2020 and became one of the fastest-rising stars in the organization due to his impressive win streak.