Khamzat Chimaev pulled no punches in his most recent jab at Sean Strickland.
Chimaev (14-0 MMA, 8-0 UFC) and Strickland (29-6 MMA, 16-6 UFC), who previously spent time training at Xtreme Couture in Las Vegas, have recently been engaging in a war of words ahead of Saturday’s middleweight title fight at UFC 312.
Strickland, who challenges Dricus Du Plessis in the upcoming main event rematch, took aim at Chimaev’s political ties, prompting Chimaev to fire back by bringing up Strickland’s troubled childhood with his father.
“Borz” posted a video mocking Strickland’s emotional interview with Theo Von, where he broke down in tears when recalling his traumatic childhood.
— Khamzat Chimaev (@KChimaev) February 6, 2025
y more losses than wins 🤣🤣🤣 pic.twitter.com/xQcThiL7mQ
— Khamzat Chimaev (@KChimaev) February 5, 2025
Chimaev, who many believe should’ve been the one challenging for gold this weekend against Du Plessis, offered his response after Strickland has berated him throughout fight week, including online, at media day and at the pre-fight press conference.
“Just got done training, mind is clear. I’m gonna lay off of Chimeav Chechen thing. I’m very aware that his family is probably in danger and he probably regrets that relationship. So I’m going to attempt to not go there. Have a good day. Here’s to trying. Still is bit coin scams?”
Just got done training, mind is clear.I’m gonna lay off of Chimeav chechen thing. I’m very aware that his family is probably in danger and he probably regrets that relationship..
So I’m going to attempt to not go there. Have a good day. Here’s to trying. Still is bit coin scams?
— Sean Strickland (@SStricklandMMA) February 6, 2025
Strickland challenges Dricus Du Plessis (22-2 MMA, 8-0 UFC) in the headliner at Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney (ESPN+ pay-per-view, ESPN2, ESPN+). Meanwhile, UFC CEO Dana White confirmed during Thursday’s pre-fight press conference that Chimaev will be next in line for a title shot against the winner.
For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC 312.
