Chimaev Looking To ‘Avoid’ Imavov

“He’s a good guy. Like I know him, he knows me, we know each other. If you ask me, I don’t want to fight this guy because we know each other. Like as a Muslim, he’s from Dagestan, and you know how is Dagestan, Chechen people. Like there will be a lot of drama on the internet and all this s**t. All these things I don’t like about it. But if UFC wants it, bro, I’m never going to say no. If the guy wants it I tell his manager as well. I’m like brother if Nassourdine wants, I will do no problem. If he says it can wait till I move up, I’m like not going to say no. I want to fight this guy. So for me, it doesn’t matter,” Chimaev said 

The Approach

Chimaev’s goal would be to force the fight into a grappling exchange. His approach is relentless, high-pressure forward movement. This involves either a powerful, long-distance straight right hand to stun Imavov or a feinted strike directly into a takedown attempt. Once the fight is on the floor, Chimaev’s approach is to maintain top control. His objective isn’t just to score points but to drain Imavov’s gas tank. If Imavov successfully defends the initial takedowns, Chimaev would rely on his striking—primarily the jab and power right hand.

Imavov’s objective is to keep the fight in the center of the cage and avoid being pressed against the fence. He would use lateral movement and footwork. If Chimaev lunges, Imavov would pivot and circle off the fence to avoid becoming a stationary target. His counter-grappling needs to be fast and decisive. If he is taken down, he must immediately initiate a hip escape or wrestle-up to a standing position. Imavov’s needs to use his longer reach and superior striking volume.