Chimaev Secures D’Arce Choke On Johnson

Originally posted on BoxingNews.com | Last updated Apr 9, 2026 5:55 AM ET

Footage emerged of Khamzat Chimaev (middleweight champ) choking out UFC Hall of Famer Demetrious Johnson.

The exchange turned intense, culminating in Chimaev securing a D’Arce choke in just 47 seconds. The video highlights the massive physical and technical gap Chimaev can impose, even against one of the greatest technical martial artists in history.

Chimaev is reportedly running a “bounty-style” camp in California, inviting elite fighters like Johnson to push his limits as he prepares for his defense against Sean Strickland. While the 47-second submission was swift, the two shared a warm embrace afterward, with Chimaev stating he grew up watching Johnson’s historic title reign.

As Chimaev prepares for his May 9 date with Sean Strickland, the footage serves as a stark reminder of his grappling. Strickland, known for his defensive upright stance, will have to navigate the first round against a man known for getting submissions.

Feature	Details
Main Event	Khamzat Chimaev (c) vs. Sean Strickland
Co-Main Event	Joshua Van (c) vs. Tatsuro Taira
Stakes	UFC Middleweight Championship
Venue	Prudential Center, Newark, NJ
Broadcast	Paramount+ / ESPN+ PPV

Reaction

“Feels amazing. Legend. One and only. Nobody beating this guy, crazy techniques. If somebody has a computer [referring to his fight IQ] in this game, he has it. Actually growing up on [his] fights, I tried to do with my body some stuff like him. Sometimes worked, sometimes not. It’s cool to have him here. Always,” Chimaev stated

“I don’t know how big he is but he’s super, super strong. I got to stop trying to grapple him and f—— Arman [Tsarukyan]. I’m gonna get in trouble one day, these guys are just too big and strong,” Johnson said

This article first appeared on BoxingNews.com and was syndicated with permission.

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