After Khamzat Chimaev secured the UFC middleweight championship with a commanding win over Dricus Du Plessis, Nate Diaz voiced strong criticism of Chimaev’s fighting approach. Despite Chimaev’s control of the bout, some observers noted his reluctance to finish Du Plessis, a point Diaz echoed with sharp disapproval during a livestream. The criticism highlights mounting tension between the fighters, with Diaz labeling Chimaev’s style as overly cautious and unengaging.

Nate Diaz Calls Out Chimaev’s Fighting Style as Fearful

Diaz described Chimaev as a “scared fighter” during an intense discussion streamed online. He argued that although Chimaev appears intimidating, his gameplay betrays a deeper apprehension.

“He comes off as this big, intimidating guy but he’s a big scared f***ing child,”

Diaz stated emphatically, challenging the image Chimaev projects in the octagon.

Diving deeper into his criticism, Diaz explained that Chimaev’s constant ground control and restrained striking reflect a fear of being counterattacked.

“That type of fighter is a scared fighter. He’s scared for his life that he don’t let go enough to hit. He’s afraid if he let him go and hits them hard, that motherf–ker might get up and kick the f–k out of ’em,”

Diaz elaborated, questioning Chimaev’s confidence and aggression during fights.

Diaz’s Perspective on His Own Strategy Against Chimaev

Expanding on his critique, Diaz shared his envisioned game plan had he fought Chimaev. Confident in his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu skills, Diaz stated that he intended to bring the fight to the ground and maintain control.

“I didn’t plan on getting up when I fought Khamzat. Lets go to the ground motherf–ker. I’m a blackbelt. I plan on going to my back and finishing your f–king a– or splitting your whole face open for 25 minutes,”

Diaz declared, emphasizing his readiness to dominate Chimaev through grappling.

Implications for Chimaev’s Reputation and UFC Landscape

Diaz’s comments add fuel to ongoing debates about Chimaev’s fighting style, specifically his cautious tactics despite his title status. Such criticism from a prominent figure like Diaz could influence public perception of Chimaev’s toughness and ability to close fights decisively. This confrontation also sets the stage for possible future matchups, where stylistic and personal rivalries might drive the UFC middleweight division’s narrative.