Khamzat Chimaev is taking a unique strategy for his UFC 319 preparations as he prepares to challenge for the UFC middleweight title on August 16 in Chicago. The undefeated fighter has been training intensively in the United States, joining forces with several respected athletes, including former UFC bantamweight champion TJ Dillashaw, to strengthen his bid for the 185-pound belt.
Chimaev Builds a Strong Support Network with Elite Fighters for UFC 319
In anticipation of his highly anticipated fight, Khamzat Chimaev has been training alongside top-level competitors such as Arman Tsarukyan. Although he had access to elite partners early in his camp, Chimaev’s move to Los Angeles marked a new phase where he assembled a distinguished team. The training sessions are taking place at a gym connected to the Jaxxon podcast, hosted by <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/mma/”>MMA veteran Quinton ‘Rampage’ Jackson, where many prominent fighters appear regularly.
Among the key figures supporting Chimaev in his camp is TJ Dillashaw, who retired from UFC competition in 2022 after a short comeback. Recently, Dillashaw shared a photo of himself with Chimaev, hinting at his involvement in the upcoming fight camp. This collaboration has sparked excitement among fans, who view the pairing as a formidable alliance that could boost Chimaev’s chances against Dricus du Plessis.
Fan reactions to this partnership have been enthusiastic and hopeful. Comments highlighted Dillashaw’s grappling expertise and overall skill, praising his influence on Chimaev’s preparation. One fan remarked,
“Best grappler of all time and most skilled fighter of all time.”
Another stated,
“2 legends. So happy to see a genius in MMA like you helping Khamzat. I’m now certain, and new.”
Additional reactions illustrated the perceived advantage this alliance gives Chimaev, with one fan saying,
“Damn, imagine having TJ in camp, all over for your opponent,”
while another confidently predicted,
“Just give him the belt. We all know Dricus has no chance.”
However, some voices reminded observers that Dillashaw’s presence at the gym doesn’t necessarily mean full integration into Chimaev’s camp, noting,
“He didn’t join his camp, his camp is at Jaxxon podcast studio where TJ works lol.”
One fan humorously described the group by saying,
“Bros assembling the avengers for goofy goober final boss.”
Johnny Eblen’s Insight on Dricus du Plessis’s Edge in the Upcoming Bout
Johnny Eblen, regarded among the best middleweights outside the UFC, offered his perspective on the main event at UFC 319 during an interview with MMA Junkie. Eblen gave credit to Dricus du Plessis’s mix of endurance and extensive high-level martial arts experience as key advantages heading into the fight against Chimaev.
I like DDP’s chances just because the guys he’s fought and the rounds he’s put in,
Eblen explained.
Chimaev hasn’t. Not to say it’s going to be easy, Chimaev is very, very tough, but I think DDP has more, he’s just more of a veteran when it comes to five-round fights, and tough fights, and he’s fought middleweight this whole time. Chimaev is just kind of coming up.
—Johnny Eblen, MMA Fighter
Many fans anticipate that Chimaev’s aggressive start will give him an initial upper hand, but the contest could pivot in the later rounds when stamina and experience become crucial factors. Du Plessis’s familiarity with longer fights at the middleweight level may prove decisive over the course of the championship match.
Significance of Chimaev’s Training Camp and What to Expect at UFC 319
Khamzat Chimaev’s decision to collaborate with prominent figures like TJ Dillashaw reflects a focused approach to his UFC 319 preparations. Combining Dillashaw’s champion pedigree and Chimaev’s grappling prowess could bring a significant tactical advantage when facing a seasoned opponent like Dricus du Plessis. Training in a high-profile environment, including the Jaxxon podcast gym, not only increases the visibility of Chimaev’s camp but also allows him to stay sharp with elite sparring partners.
Given the mixed fan opinions and expert analysis, the August 16 bout promises to be a compelling event in the middleweight division. How Chimaev’s new training alliances impact the fight remains a key point of interest, potentially influencing the trajectory of his career as he steps further into title contention.