Khamzat Chimaev (via Getty Images)
The latest training footage of Khamzat Chimaev has sparked a fresh debate in the MMA world. The video showed ‘Borz’ working on his striking, but not everyone was impressed. Joaquin Buckley, also known as ‘New Mansa’, believes the footage does not match how Chimaev usually fights inside the Octagon.The welterweight contender took aim at Chimaev on social media and questioned his intentions. He claimed Chimaev rarely sticks to striking and instead relies heavily on wrestling. The knockout artist’s criticism has now turned into a bold and public challenge to the ‘Borz’ who is training for his upcoming challenges.
Joaquin Buckley questions Khamzat Chimaev’s striking and issues a bold cash challenge to the MMA fighter
Earlier this week, Joaquin Buckley reacted to one of Khamzat Chimaev’s striking training videos on X. Buckley suggested that pad work is pointless if Chimaev plans to shoot for takedowns straight away. He then issued a daring offer that grabbed widespread attention.Reacting to the video, Buckley said, “Man, all that striking you’re doing there, just to shoot in the first five seconds of the fight, is crazy work. So, Khamzat, look, this is what I’m going to do for you. If you’re able to stay on your feet for one round, just on your feet and not use wrestling, I’ll give you $50,000. Oh, you heard me right, $50,000.”Buckley did not stop there. He encouraged Chimaev’s possible next opponent, Nassourdine Imavov, to double the stakes. He added, “Nassourdine, if you’re able to match, that means that’s $100,000. So Khamzat, take that money or still show that you’re a punk by using that wrestling in the first five seconds.”This is not the first time Buckley and Chimaev have clashed. Ahead of UFC 273, Buckley confronted Chimaev after challenging his friend Darren Till. During a heated exchange backstage, Chimaev warned him, saying, “Hey, let’s fight now. You wanna play gangster? I’ll fk you up, man.”Notably, Chimaev is widely known as one of the most aggressive grapplers in the UFC. He often overwhelms opponents with pressure and control. However, his recent middleweight title win over Dricus du Plessis did not impress the fans as much. Many fans criticized the fight for its lack of action.During the bout, Chimaev controlled ‘Stillknocks’ for a total of 21:40. He secured several crucifix positions but failed to find a finish. The performance led to questions about his style and entertainment value.Also Read: Khamzat Chimaev shoves Ian Garry backstage at UFC Qatar after ‘language barrier misunderstanding’ Go to Source
