Gilbert Burns Says Chimaev's UFC 328 Loss Stemmed From Brutal Weight Cut, Eyes 205-Pound Costa Fight
Updated
Updated · Sherdog.com · May 11
Gilbert Burns Says Chimaev's UFC 328 Loss Stemmed From Brutal Weight Cut, Eyes 205-Pound Costa Fight
4 articles · Updated · Sherdog.com · May 11
Gilbert Burns said Khamzat Chimaev’s UFC 328 struggles were driven by a bad weight cut, pointing to his quick weigh-in and fatigue in the second round after Sean Strickland regained the middleweight title.
Burns said one of UFC’s best wrestlers pulling guard early in Round 2 was the clearest sign Chimaev was compromised, and noted he had warned before the fight that the cut would be difficult.
Sean Strickland’s ground game also factored into Burns’ pre-fight call, with Burns saying Brazilian jiu-jitsu specialists had been impressed by Strickland’s skill on the mat.
Dana White said after UFC 328 that Chimaev plans to move to light heavyweight, and Burns argued Paulo Costa is the obvious next opponent given their rivalry.
Burns, who retired after losing to Mike Malott in the April 18 UFC Winnipeg main event, also said he has signed to compete in UFC BJJ.
Did a brutal weight cut cost Chimaev his title, or did Sean Strickland simply expose the hype?
With his invincibility shattered, should Chimaev risk a rematch or seek refuge in a new weight class?