Arman Tsarukyan Was Reason Behind Khamzat Chimaev’s Grappling Fest at UFC 319

‘Ahalkalakets’ revealed that he told Chimaev that he was better in everything than his opponent. However, Tsarukyan made sure to remind ‘Borz’ not to let his emotions take over and get into unnecessary exchanges. He revealed that the game plan was to wrestle and force the fight to the ground from the very beginning and to get a submission in the later rounds successfully.

Chimaev and Tsarukyan have always supported each other and are training partners, and were seen training together before UFC 319. ‘Borz’ also wrestled a member of Tsarukyans’ team when he appeared on a reality show with the lightweight contender. ‘Ahalkalakets’ had also reached out to Chimaev to train him for a potential matchup against Islam Makhachev.

Chimaev and Tsarukyan may compete in separate weight classes, but their careers are closely linked via training, mutual respect, and shared experiences. From grappling competitions to cornering in high-profile fights, both have openly acknowledged the other’s ability and significance.

Arman Tsarukyan commends Khamzat Chimaev’s wrestling

Khamzat Chimaev and Arman Tsarukyan had faced off in a friendly grappling match at a Russian MMA reality show called Hype Fighting 3. The contest was part of a special event where both fighters served as team captains, with their bout billed as the highlight.

The encounter highlighted Chimaev’s height and strength advantage, as he employed forceful wrestling and top control to command the pace.  Tsarukyan demonstrated mobility, scrambling ability, and strong defense.

However, Chimaev’s constant pressure enabled him to achieve many takedowns and retain dominating positions throughout. After the match, ‘Ahalkalakets’ openly commended Chimaev and his wrestling style and grappling creativity, and also termed ‘Borz’ as the “best wrestler he has ever faced”.

I already know Khamzat. I understood that he would not break me to the end, he would not injure me. He feels it very well when you try to take him down. His sensitivity and strength make him a good wrestler.

Arman Tsarukyan via Hype Fighting 3

Chimaev maintained his reputation as a dominating grappler capable of crushing opponents with size and pressure. Meanwhile, Tsarukyan won respect for his desire to challenge himself against a larger, more experienced competitor. The demonstration underlined both men’s increasing standing in their respective divisions, giving fans a taste of the sustained influence they are projected to have inside the Octagon.