Khamzat Chimaev Has Had Enough of the Khabib Comparisons!

The Rising Star vs. The Legend

The world of mixed martial arts (MMA) is no stranger to comparisons. Every time a new star emerges, the media and fans rush to liken them to the legends who came before. In recent years, few fighters have faced as many comparisons as Khamzat Chimaev, with constant links to the undefeated former UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov.

Both men are dominant grapplers, both hail from the Caucasus region, and both have exhibited a level of dominance that makes them look nearly unbeatable inside the Octagon. However, Chimaev has grown increasingly frustrated with the comparisons, making it clear that he is his own fighter, with his own path and style.

So, is it fair to keep comparing Chimaev to Khabib? Or has “Borz” truly forged his own identity in the UFC? Let’s break it all down.

Why the Comparisons Exist

1. Unstoppable Wrestling & Grappling

One of the biggest reasons fans compare Khamzat Chimaev to Khabib Nurmagomedov is their dominant wrestling and grappling-heavy style. Both fighters overwhelm their opponents with relentless takedowns, suffocating control, and devastating ground-and-pound.

Chimaev’s Wrestling Stats:

• 6.89 takedowns per 15 minutes

• 60% takedown accuracy

• 3 submission wins in the UFC

Khabib’s Wrestling Stats:

• 5.32 takedowns per 15 minutes

• 48% takedown accuracy

• 11 submission wins in the UFC

Clearly, both fighters excel in controlling their opponents and dictating where the fight takes place. However, Chimaev’s style is more explosive and aggressive, while Khabib’s game was built on methodical control and patience.

2. Their Regional & Cultural Backgrounds

Another reason for the comparisons is their similar backgrounds. Khabib is from Dagestan, Russia, while Chimaev was born in Chechnya before moving to Sweden.

Both regions are known for producing elite-level wrestlers and have a rich history of combat sports dominance. Fighters from these areas are often grappling-heavy, which is why Chimaev is frequently lumped into the same category as Khabib.

However, despite their shared heritage, Chimaev has repeatedly stated that he is not trying to be “the next Khabib.” He has a completely different personality, fighting mentality, and approach to the sport.

3. Their Undefeated Records & Dominance

Before Khabib retired, he had a flawless record of 29-0, never losing a single fight in his career. Chimaev, at 13-0, is also undefeated, which naturally invites comparisons.

Additionally, both men have dominated their opponents in similar ways, making them look leagues ahead of their competition.

Notable Chimaev Performances:

Defeated Kevin Holland in 2 minutes via submission

Destroyed Li Jingliang without absorbing a single strike

Went to war with Gilbert Burns in a Fight of the Year contender

Notable Khabib Performances:

Dominated Conor McGregor in a highly anticipated title fight

Smashed Dustin Poirier with relentless grappling and submission skills

Forced Justin Gaethje to tap out in his final UFC appearance

While these accomplishments are impressive, Chimaev doesn’t want to live in Khabib’s shadow. His frustration with the comparisons has led to bold statements about wanting to carve his own path.

Why Chimaev is NOT Khabib

Despite their similarities, Khamzat Chimaev and Khabib Nurmagomedov are very different fighters in many ways.

1. Chimaev is More Aggressive & Risk-Taking

One of the most notable differences between Khabib and Chimaev is their fighting approach.

Khabib was extremely calculated, preferring to take minimal damage while wearing down opponents over multiple rounds.

Chimaev, on the other hand, is reckless and fearless, often rushing in with wild striking exchanges and looking for a quick finish.

Example:

• In his fight against Gilbert Burns, Chimaev abandoned his wrestling and engaged in an all-out brawl. Khabib would never take such risks.

• Khabib, even against dangerous strikers like Justin Gaethje, stuck to his game plan and dominated with wrestling.

This shows that while they both have grappling-heavy styles, Chimaev fights with a “kill or be killed” mentality, while Khabib fought with discipline and control.

2. Chimaev’s Striking is More Developed

Another key difference is that Chimaev has more confidence in his striking than Khabib ever did.

Khabib primarily used striking to set up takedowns.

Chimaev, however, has knockout power and isn’t afraid to stand and trade punches.

Chimaev’s Notable KO Victories:
 One-punch knockout over Gerald Meerschaert
 Brutal TKO finish over Rhys McKee
 Powerful striking exchanges against Gilbert Burns

While Khabib’s striking improved later in his career, he never relied on it as much as Chimaev does.

3. Personality Differences: Khamzat is More Outspoken

Khabib was known for his calm, humble, and respectful demeanor. He often spoke about discipline, faith, and respect for opponents.

Chimaev, on the other hand, is much more brash, aggressive, and outspoken.

Chimaev’s Bold Statements:

“I will smash everybody!”

“I don’t care who I fight. Give me anyone!”

“I will fight three guys in one night!”

Chimaev has also engaged in trash talk and intense face-offs, something Khabib rarely did. This makes him more similar to fighters like Conor McGregor or Kamaru Usman rather than Khabib.

Chimaev’s Response to the Khabib Comparisons

Recently, Khamzat Chimaev has made it clear that he is tired of being compared to Khabib.

In multiple interviews, he has stated:

“I respect Khabib, but I am not him. I fight differently, I talk differently, and I want to build my own legacy.”

“People always want to compare me to him, but I am Khamzat Chimaev. Nobody else.”

Chimaev wants to step out of Khabib’s shadow and establish himself as a unique force in the UFC.

Final Thoughts: The Legacy of Khamzat Chimaev

So, is it fair to compare Khamzat Chimaev to Khabib Nurmagomedov? Yes and no.

Similarities:

• Both are dominant grapplers with elite wrestling.

• Both come from the Caucasus region.

• Both have undefeated records and dominant wins.

Differences:

• Chimaev is far more aggressive and reckless in his fights.

• Chimaev relies more on striking and KO power.

• Chimaev is outspoken and bold, while Khabib was humble and disciplined.

At the end of the day, Khamzat Chimaev is carving his own path. Whether he will match Khabib’s legacy and dominance remains to be seen, but one thing is clear:

Chimaev is NOT the next Khabib—he is the first Khamzat Chimaev!

What do you think? Is Chimaev the new Khabib, or is he truly different? Drop your thoughts in the comments!