In the wake of a viral training clip showing Khamzat Chimaev applying a choke on him, UFC middleweight contender Caio Borralho has responded with remarkable composure and perspective that has resonated with many in the MMA community.
“I have no ego,” Borralho explained calmly in an interview. “That’s my mission in life—to control my ego to be a better man, a better athlete, a better father, brother, and son. I use the fighting game to make me a better human.”
The Brazilian boxer’s response stands in stark contrast to how many might react to such a public display. According to Borralho, this mindset makes him an ideal training partner, something apparently recognized by top boxers seeking his help.
“I’m very calm about what I can do. I know who I can be in this sport,”
he stated.
“I don’t need to show that in the gym every day that I can hurt all the guys.”
The MMA community has had mixed reactions to both the video and Borralho‘s response. Some fans appreciate his level-headed approach, calling him a
“class act”
and admitting they need to work on their own egos. Others remain skeptical, suggesting he’s simply making excuses for being caught in a compromising position.
Borralho highlighted an important distinction between training and actual competition, implying that sparring with restraint benefits everyone involved.
“If I wasn’t a good sparring partner, do you think Sean Strickland would call me to do five rounds with him?”
Amid the controversy, rumors have circulated that a potential bout between Borralho and Chimaev could be in the works, possibly for an interim title. Additionally, Borralho recently mentioned hearing that Dricus Du Plessis might be sidelined for seven months with a broken shin from training low kicks, though he emphasized he doesn’t know for certain.
The situation illustrates the complex dynamics of training partnerships in MMA, where competitors must balance competitive drive with safety and respect. As one observer noted,
“When one person trains with ego and one doesn’t, the partner with ego will often get the better of exchanges.”
Whether in training or competition, Borralho appears committed to maintaining his philosophy that boxing is ultimately about personal growth rather than dominance.
