In a revealing discussion, Arman Tsarukyan shared an intriguing moment from Khamzat Chimaev’s strategic battle against Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 308.
According to Tsarukyan, Chimaev approached him before the fourth round with an unexpected request: permission to switch tactics and engage Du Plessis in a boxing exchange.
“In the third round, he said to me, ‘Can I box now?'”
Tsarukyan recounted.
“I said, ‘No, Khamzat, you can do everything. You see where you can translate and control.'”
Tsarukyan, who was in Chimaev’s corner for the championship bout, emphasized the importance of sticking to the successful gameplan that had been working through the first three rounds.
“If you win three rounds at this pace, why change something? Why come up with something?”
Tsarukyan explained, highlighting his concern that deviating from the established strategy could jeopardize Chimaev’s advantageous position in the bout.
The Dagestani MMA star’s desire to switch to boxing apparently stemmed from his confidence and eagerness to finish the bout in spectacular fashion. However, Tsarukyan recognized the dangers in this approach.
“Khamzat wanted to go for the knockout, for the finish, so he could make a mistake and lose the bout,”
Tsarukyan said.
“The price is on the risk.”
What’s particularly noteworthy, according to Tsarukyan, was Chimaev’s reaction to being denied permission to box.
“He became so offended, as if he was going to compete again. He became so offended,”
Tsarukyan recalled with amusement.
Tsarukyan summed up his coaching philosophy during the moment:
“Everything is working for you. No need to invent anything. Our goal is to win the title.”
The exchange offers fans a fascinating glimpse into the corner dynamics and strategic decision-making that occurs during high-stakes UFC bouts. It also demonstrates the maturity in Chimaev’s approach to accept guidance from his team despite his competitive desire to showcase his striking abilities.
