Kamaru Usman, the greatest UFC Welterweight ever, was eager to face Middleweight powerhouse Khamzat Chimaev. He traveled halfway across the world to Abu Dhabi on short notice for UFC 294.
Usman, already a legend, moved up a weight class to take on Chimaev, despite recent losses to Leon Edwards, showing his determination.
Chimaev, undefeated and waiting for a year, aimed for a Middleweight title shot. The match looked great on paper, and in the end, Chimaev’s Dagestani wrestling earned him a tough decision win.
Khamzat and Usman started the fight with some antics, and Khamzat initiated with a takedown. He took Usman’s back, controlled the position, and even tried a rear-naked choke but couldn’t secure it. The first round was Khamzat’s, but he used a lot of energy.
Between rounds, Usman seemed more exhausted. In the second round, not much action happened in the beginning. Usman had a nice jab, but the crowd got a bit bored. Usman had the upper hand in the second round.
The third round was a bit of a puzzle for the judges, possibly 1-1. Khamzat attempted another takedown but couldn’t secure it. The fight turned into a striking exchange, with Usman having the upper hand.
Khamzat won the fight, but it’s uncertain if his performance, along with his limited Middleweight record, is enough for a title shot.
Results: Khamzat Chimaev def. Kamaru Usman via MD
Watch the highlights below:
Security has to hold Usman and Chimaev back before the fight starts! 🔥 #UFC294 pic.twitter.com/SYhwkRRSfm
— UFC (@ufc) October 21, 2023
Final 5 minutes on the way!
Go inside the Usman corner before Round 3 🔊 #UFC294 pic.twitter.com/HUU2l0k2pb
— UFC (@ufc) October 21, 2023
15 minutes in the books!
Our #UFC294 co-main is headed to the judges' scorecards pic.twitter.com/SeD7su1cY2
— UFC (@ufc) October 21, 2023
Khamzat Chimaev takes the majority decision!!
He leaves #UFC294 with the victory over Kamaru Usman at #UFC294 pic.twitter.com/EjxZT6XiBA
— UFC (@ufc) October 21, 2023
