Khamzat Chimaev delivered a commanding grappling performance against Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 319, showcasing wrestling skills that remind fans of former lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov’s dominance. UFC coach Javier Mendez recently praised Chimaev’s grappling mastery, drawing comparisons to both Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev while responding to critics labeling the fight as boring.
Javier Mendez Praises Chimaev’s Skill and Responds to ‘Boring’ Criticism
Javier Mendez, renowned coach of Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev, discussed Chimaev’s UFC 319 victory on the Javier and Mo Show with host Mo Azizah. Mendez expressed admiration for Chimaev’s abilities, noting he was impressed by the fighter’s skills during sparring sessions at the UFC Performance Institute several years ago. Addressing the negative feedback, Mendez explained that blaming Chimaev’s style for the perceived dullness is misplaced.
“Sometimes people go, ‘Oh, it was boring.’ Well, okay, but whose fault is it that it’s boring? If the person can’t stop you from taking them down, and he wants to stand, it’s their fault. Stand up and learn your game.” —Javier Mendez via Javier and Mo Show
Mendez emphasized that opponents must adapt to Chimaev’s wrestling dominance rather than allowing themselves to be controlled on the mat, suggesting that the responsibility lies with those who fail to defend takedowns. He clearly positioned Chimaev’s grappling as elite and frustrating for fighters unable to counter it effectively.
Comparison with Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev
Mendez also highlighted the similarities between Chimaev’s grappling and that of his famous star pupils, Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev. He stated that while their styles differ, all three fighters possess top-tier ground skills, placing them at an “A+” level in wrestling effectiveness. This places Chimaev on par with two of the most dominant figures in the sport’s recent history.
“Javier Mendez says Khamzat Chimaev’s grappling is as elite as Khabib and Islam Makhachev’s grappling: ‘I think they’re the same level but they’re different…I would say his skillset on the ground, I’d say A+, A+ for Islam, A+ for Khabib, but they’re all different but…’” —Javier Mendez via Home of Fight
Mendez’s assessment confirms Chimaev is part of an elite group of grapplers who have controlled multiple divisions with an unstoppable ground game. Despite the differences in style, all three men have established prolonged dominance while remaining undefeated champions.
Criticism of Opponent’s Preparation and Fight Strategy
The coach criticized Dricus Du Plessis and his camp for apparently failing to adequately prepare for Chimaev’s wrestling. Mendez noted that Du Plessis dedicated an entire training cycle to defending takedowns but was still unable to neutralize Chimaev’s grappling superiority. He compared the fight to Khabib’s 2019 bout with Dustin Poirier, where Poirier preferred striking but was ultimately overwhelmed by relentless takedowns.
Mendez also warned that underestimating Chimaev’s striking could be a dangerous miscalculation. He dismissed any doubts surrounding Chimaev’s creativity and control on the ground, expressing skepticism that anyone in the division can stop the Chechen-born fighter. In his view, Chimaev is a ‘machine’ and one of the most formidable competitors in MMA today.
“A+ but still very different from each other.” —Javier Mendez describing Chimaev, Nurmagomedov, and Makhachev’s grappling
Chimaev’s Celebrated Return to the UAE After UFC 319 Victory
After securing the middleweight title at UFC 319, Chimaev received a warm welcome back in Dubai, where thousands of fans greeted him with banners and cheers. Draped in the Emirati flag, he was celebrated not only for defending his perfect record but also for bringing attention to the UAE’s growing presence in the mixed martial arts sphere.
Chimaev officially began representing the UAE in 2023 and obtained citizenship early in 2025. Originally from Chechnya, he moved to Sweden at 18 and trained extensively across Europe. Despite his success abroad, challenges with securing Swedish citizenship and travel restrictions related to his Russian passport and ties to Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov had complicated his international movement.
This champion’s rise marks an important milestone for both his career and the region, as he prepares for his first title defense later this year. His achievements serve as a symbol of pride, representing not only his own skill but also the country he calls home.