UFC star Tatiana Suarez has shared an amusing insight into her interactions with Khamzat Chimaev at the UFC Performance Institute, revealing the Chechen-born star’s playful yet unconventional approach to fellow athletes.
In a recent interview with Helen Yee, Suarez detailed how Chimaev randomly engages with her during training sessions, including unexpected shin kicks.
The unusual interactions don’t stop there. Suarez described a recent incident where Chimaev attempted to initiate an impromptu wrestling session in an unlikely location.
When asked about her opinion on Chimaev’s rise in the sport, Suarez expressed admiration for his abilities despite his eccentric behavior.
Chimaev’s interactions with Suarez aren’t out of character for him. The UFC welterweight and middleweight contender has a reputation for his relentless approach to training, often sparring or grappling with anyone willing—or unwilling—to engage. His unpredictable energy has become a signature part of his personality, both in and out of the cage.
While some fighters maintain a more serious, structured approach to training, Chimaev thrives in chaos. His aggressive, playful energy is reminiscent of the stories of him repeatedly calling out UFC fighters at the gym and even challenging top-tier competitors to impromptu matches. His sauna encounter with Suarez fits right into this pattern.
Beyond his antics in training, Chimaev has shown a level of openness to female fighters that sets him apart from some of his peers, particularly those from traditional Muslim backgrounds. Unlike many Dagestani UFC stars who tend to maintain stricter personal boundaries with women, Chimaev has been seen rolling with female athletes and has openly expressed support for women in sports.
This attitude contrasts sharply with UFC Hall of Famer Khabib Nurmagomedov, who has been known to avoid shaking hands with women and has publicly dismissed female fighters. When asked if he had any advice for women in MMA, Khabib once said:
Chimaev, however, recently addressed the topic at a youth event in Grozny, Chechnya, where he was asked how he feels about women participating in sports. His response was notably progressive compared to some of his peers:
His comments suggest that while he remains tied to his cultural roots, he sees value in women being active in sports and other pursuits.
Beyond his aggressive training style and unpredictable antics, Chimaev has demonstrated a deep sense of motivation and appreciation for those who inspire him. At the same youth event, he shared a personal story about how he stays motivated, referencing an athlete with no legs who competed in MMA and won.
Chimaev has also frequently credited his mother for her unwavering support. In another interview, he revealed that even when his own brother doubted his career in MMA, his mother was the one who encouraged him to pursue his dreams.
Khamzat Chimaev continues to be one of the most unpredictable and entertaining personalities in the UFC. Whether he’s trying to wrestle Tatiana Suarez in a sauna, rolling with female athletes despite cultural taboos, or drawing inspiration from athletes overcoming extreme adversity, Chimaev’s presence in the sport is anything but ordinary.
