Retired UFC fighter Jorge Masvidal recently launched a scathing verbal attack on Khamzat Chimaev, ahead of the undefeated champion’s middleweight title bout against Sean Strickland. Masvidal criticized Chimaev’s fighting style and conditioning, in a rant that has since gained significant traction on MMA social media platforms.
These remarks emerged from Masvidal’s “Deathrow MMA” show, where he addressed Chimaev’s bold claims about defeating him, co-host Johnny Eblen, and Sean Strickland all in one night. Masvidal’s response was a direct reaction to Chimaev’s challenge.
Masvidal stated, “The humor in this is that you won’t defeat anyone by simply hugging them. You need to cease that ‘crotch-sniffing’ behavior, particularly when addressing me. Your reputation will forever be linked to that style. Whenever an opportunity arose to challenge perceptions, you resorted to ‘crotch-sniffing.’ Rather than focusing on my statements or posts, you should concentrate on your upcoming fight, as your stamina is poor, and Sean is poised to expose that.”
Jorge Masvidal Rips Into Khamzat Chimaev
Masvidal continued his critique in the widely circulated clip, ridiculing Chimaev’s wrestling-dominant approach and disputing its perceived danger. He reiterated that Chimaev “won’t defeat anyone by simply hugging them to death” and warned him to “stop with that ‘crotch-sniffing'” if he intends to provoke him further.
These remarks align with a consistent aspect of Masvidal’s public persona, which frequently targets wrestlers who prioritize top control over offensive output. The “crotch-sniffer” epithet is not new for Masvidal; he has previously applied it to other grapplers he considers overly defensive. By using this term for Chimaev, Masvidal places the Chechen-born champion among a group of fighters whose grappling-heavy styles he has often disparaged throughout his UFC career.
Masvidal’s criticism extended beyond just Chimaev’s style, questioning his ability to endure a five-round fight against Strickland. He advised Chimaev to focus on his upcoming bout rather than Masvidal’s social media activity or show comments, asserting that Chimaev’s “gas tank is trash, and Sean’s about to test your gas tank.” Earlier in the month, Masvidal had openly supported Strickland, stating on “Deathrow MMA” that he would “bet heavily on Strickland” and doubted Chimaev’s overall prowess.
Chimaev is slated to defend his UFC middleweight championship against former titleholder Sean Strickland in the main event of UFC 328, scheduled for May 9th at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. UFC CEO Dana White officially announced this matchup in early March, confirming Strickland as Chimaev’s inaugural challenger in the 185-pound division. Chimaev secured the belt last August with a decisive unanimous decision victory over Dricus du Plessis, a performance characterized by relentless wrestling pressure, superior top control, and consistent ground and pound throughout five rounds.
Strickland, who previously held the middleweight title, earned his championship opportunity through continued activity and significant victories since losing the belt, including a recent triumph over Anthony Hernandez. Recognized for his prolific jab, relentless forward pressure, and robust durability, Strickland is expected to challenge Chimaev’s stamina and mental fortitude in the championship rounds, especially if he can maintain a standing position or consistently return to his feet.
While it’s uncertain if Chimaev will directly address Masvidal’s recent outburst, the viral clip has certainly intensified the storyline surrounding UFC 328. It sets up a compelling clash between an undefeated champion known for his grappling-heavy style and lingering questions about his cardio, against a challenger widely perceived as capable of pushing him into the exact type of grueling contest Masvidal claims Chimaev can’t endure.
