Alan Nascimento, the head coach for UFC middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev, recently commented on Sean Strickland’s online provocations. The rivalry between Chimaev and Strickland escalated significantly leading up to UFC 328, prompting UFC officials to implement enhanced security measures, such as separate accommodations and a decision to forgo traditional face-offs to prevent altercations.
Nascimento: Strickland’s Past Online Remarks Would Have Resulted in Jail Time
Nascimento observed a distinct change in Chimaev’s demeanor since capturing the championship title from Dricus du Plessis at UFC 319 last August. “A champion’s mindset is different,” Nascimento stated. “When someone truly embodies the champion within, something shifts, and I see that clearly in Khamzat.” He further elaborated that Chimaev’s maturity developed during his training camp for Robert Whittaker and intensified after winning the belt, which he believes explains why Strickland’s trash talk is proving ineffective.
Strickland intensified his verbal attacks by making veiled gun threats and racist remarks referencing Chimaev’s Chechen heritage. He issued warnings of violence against Chimaev and his associates if they approached him aggressively. Nascimento recounted showing Chimaev these clips, to which Chimaev reportedly responded with laughter, dismissing Strickland as a “clown,” and immediately returning to his training.
The coach contrasted Chimaev’s current composure with his past behavior. “If the things Sean Strickland has been saying online had occurred four years ago, someone would undoubtedly be in jail,” Nascimento declared in an interview with MMA DAILY.
This statement aligns with Chimaev’s early UFC days, recalling incidents like the thrown chair during training sessions with Darren Till. Sparring partners from that era remember Chimaev frequently tapping out Strickland during their rounds at Extreme Couture. Nascimento attributes the current difference to Chimaev’s evolved championship mindset. Chimaev’s team had also prepared diligently for Strickland’s fighting style, anticipating his aggressive striking and takedown defense based on their previous encounters.
Khamzat Chimaev vs. Sean Strickland at UFC 328
UFC management increased security protocols following concerns raised by Joe Rogan about potential risks during pre-fight interactions. Dana White confirmed the implementation of additional security for the event in New Jersey, describing it as a “crazy weekend.” Chimaev himself remained unfazed by the threats at media day, stating that he still viewed himself as the hunter.
Nascimento expressed optimism regarding the process. “We are embracing the journey and giving our best every day,” he said. “Our responsibility is to perform at our highest level.” He voiced his hope for a respectful face-off. “I hope at least one face-off can happen without issues, as the fans deserve that.”
