Not many people are giving Nate Diaz much of a shot against Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 279 – including UFC heavyweight Curtis Blaydes.
Curtis Blaydes Picks Chimaev To ‘Ragdoll’ Diaz
Chimaev and Diaz are slated to headline the upcoming pay-per-view (PPV) in what will be the final fight on the latter’s contract.
Many are expecting the undefeated Chimaev to get the job done rather easily, including UFC heavyweight contender Curtis Blaydes.
Taking part in an MMA pros pick video, Blaydes picked Chimaev to ‘ragdoll’ Diaz when they meet inside the Octagon. Mostly because Blaydes knows first-hand how strong Chimaev is.
“It’s sad to say I think he ragdolls him. Diaz doesn’t have the strength. Chimaev, he’s able to ragdoll “The Leach.”
“When he ragdolled him – I know how strong he is because “The Leach” fought my homie Neal, and Neal told me how strong he was.
“So for him to just manhandle him, I don’t think Diaz – I think he’s just not strong enough. He has the skill but – he’s a five round type of fighter. This isn’t going to be five rounds.
“Chimaev is going to pounce on him early and be super aggressive. He’s going to blitz him. It’s almost going to be like Ngannou, except with wrestling.”
Chimaev is looking for a high-profile win after establishing himself as the No. 3-ranked welterweight in the UFC. He owns wins over Gilbert Burns and Li Jingliang, putting on impressive performances in the process.
A win over Diaz would certainly rains Chimaev’s stock, and could potentially earn him a title opportunity. As for Diaz, he’s ready to depart the UFC and test other ventures outside of the promotion.
It’s certainly not the best stylistic matchup for the Stockton native, but if anyone can pull off the upset, the Gracie jiu-jitsu black belt and seasoned striker certainly has the tools to get it done.
