Since his debut in the Octagon, Khamzat Chimaev has established himself as one of the UFC`s most thrilling contenders. `Borz` remains undefeated after eight fights in the promotion, a record that has led him to UFC 319, where he is set to challenge Dricus du Plessis for the middleweight title.
Another undefeated standout who quickly rose to prominence, Ilia Topuria, also competed in the same promotion as Chimaev before their respective UFC signings. Topuria`s impressive run has earned him recognition as one of the top pound-for-pound talents globally, particularly after his success in the featherweight division.
Before Topuria faces Charles Oliveira for the vacant lightweight title at UFC 317, Chimaev shared his initial thoughts on `El Matador` from when their paths crossed many years ago.
Khamzat Chimaev saw potential in Ilia Topuria from their early meetings
In a video shared by Adam Zubayraev on YouTube, Khamzat Chimaev was asked about his first impressions of Ilia Topuria back when they met, long before `El Matador` became one of today`s biggest MMA stars.
Both Chimaev and Topuria previously competed under the BRAVE Combat Federation banner before making their way to the UFC. Topuria secured consecutive first-round finishes in BRAVE CF before making his Octagon debut in October 2020.
Chimaev also finished all his opponents in BRAVE CF, winning four consecutive bouts before instantly becoming one of the most talked-about fighters worldwide following his first UFC appearance in July 2020.
In addition to competing under the same banner, the two undefeated fighters also trained together at Sweden’s renowned Allstars Training Center, a gym known for developing European talent like Alexander Gustafsson.
Chimaev stated that he could recognize Topuria`s potential from an early stage in his career, attributing it to his strong work ethic.
Chimaev said, “Of course, even then he was a top fighter in BRAVE, just like me. We both fought in BRAVE. It was clear that he was a hard worker who wants to achieve something, and he achieved everything that you can in this sport.”
Khamzat Chimaev defends Ilia Topuria against fan criticism
Khamzat Chimaev went on to address some of the criticism Ilia Topuria has faced during his UFC career. From the moment he first stepped into the Octagon, `El Matador` has been notably self-confident regarding his future aspirations.
While some have labeled Topuria as arrogant, Chimaev disagrees with this characterization. He argues that promoting fights is merely a necessary part of the sport and that, having spent time with him, Topuria is a different person away from the cameras.
Chimaev added, “If fighters were quiet, there would be no such interest [in MMA]. In regular life, I’ve met him, spent some time, ate together. He’s a decent, solid guy.”
