In the aftermath of UFC 319 where Khamzat Chimaev delivered one of the most dominant championship performances in UFC history against Dricus du Plessis, former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman‘s words about wrestling have never rung truer. Chimaev’s masterful display of wrestling control over five rounds served as a perfect illustration of how the sport’s most fundamental skill can completely neutralize even the most dangerous opponents.
“Wrestling is the greatest and toughest sport on damn earth,”
Usman emphasized during his breakdown of the match on his podcast and Chimaev’s performance provided undeniable proof. For over 21 minutes of their 25-minute encounter the newly crowned middleweight champion controlled du Plessis with such authority that even UFC President Dana White scored every round 10-8 in favor of Chimaev.
What made Chimaev‘s performance so devastating wasn’t just his ability to take du Plessis down but his relentless top control and positioning that left the former champion virtually helpless. As Usman noted,
“When he locked his hands, there’s no answer for it.”
This level of dominance showcased wrestling’s unique ability to dictate not just where a match takes place but its entire rhythm and outcome.
The match highlighted a crucial aspect of mixed martial arts that Usman has long advocated: wrestling serves as the sport’s great equalizer.
“Khamzat Chimaev possessed this one skill that can make you look like a middle school high school wrestler,”
Usman observed referencing how elite wrestling can reduce even world-class grapplers to basic survival mode.
Du Plessis who had been riding high on his knockout power and striking prowess found himself trapped in positions where his most dangerous weapons became irrelevant. Chimaev‘s wrestling didn’t just neutralize the South African’s offense it transformed him into a passive participant in his own title match.
This dynamic perfectly exemplifies Usman’s philosophy about wrestling’s supreme importance in MMA. Throughout his own championship reign Usman used his wrestling foundation to control matches against elite strikers understanding that superior grappling could nullify any opponent’s preferred approach.
The performance also demonstrated wrestling’s psychological impact. As the rounds progressed and du Plessis continued to find himself on his back or defending takedowns the mental toll became evident. Wrestling doesn’t just drain the body it breaks down an opponent’s confidence and fighting spirit.
Chimaev‘s conditioning and discipline honed through years of wrestling training allowed him to maintain his dominant position for the entire match. This endurance and mental fortitude are hallmarks of elite wrestlers who understand that controlling position often matters more than seeking spectacular finishes.
