Home
A bold claim has shaken the MMA world: a former UFC star insists rising phenom Khamzat Chimaev is destined to outshine the legendary Khabib Nurmagomedov. Both hailing from the Caucasus region, Chimaev and Nurmagomedov share more than geography—they’re undefeated titans who’ve dominated the octagon. While Khabib retired in 2020 with a flawless 29-0 record and an aura of invincibility, Chimaev’s 14-0 streak and ruthless aggression have fans drawing parallels.
Now, an ex-fighter adds fuel to the fire, predicting the middleweight sensation will carve a legacy even greater than "The Eagle’s." But what’s behind this audacious forecast?
Ex-UFC fighter backs Khamzat Chimaev’s path to greatness
The voice behind the claim? None other than Darren Till, a former UFC contender and longtime training partner of Chimaev. Till, who shared mats with the Chechen-born star before his own departure from the promotion, believes Chimaev’s trajectory will redefine MMA history.
“Khabib was very dominant,” Till admitted in a recent interview with Genting Casino, acknowledging Nurmagomedov’s iconic status. “But Khabib didn’t fight for as long as he should have… God rest his father’s soul.”
Till’s critique hinges on longevity. Nurmagomedov stepped away at 32, leaving fans yearning for more. Khamzat Chimaev, meanwhile, is just 29 and already a marquee name across two weight classes. His blend of wrestling precision and striking ferocity mirrors Khabib Nurmagomedov’s ground dominance but with a broader arsenal.
“Khamzat can definitely get past Khabib in terms of dominating grappling,” Till argued, hinting at Chimaev’s versatility.
The duo’s bond adds weight to Till’s take. Having trained together, he’s witnessed Chimaev’s relentless drive firsthand. Even after Till’s UFC exit and pivot to boxing, the pair remain close, frequently exchanging public praise. This insider perspective fuels Till’s confidence that Chimaev’s career—bolstered by time and ambition—will eclipse Khabib’s storied run.
Legacy in the balance: Can Chimaev deliver?
Nurmagomedov’s legacy isn’t just about wins—it’s cultural impact. He globalized Dagestani MMA, inspired a generation, and retired atop the lightweight throne. Khamzat Chimaev, however, faces a steeper climb. To surpass Khabib Nurmagomedov, he must not only remain unbeaten but also capture titles across divisions and sustain excellence into his mid-30s. Injuries and weight-cutting struggles have already tested his momentum, but a recent win over Kamaru Usman at UFC 294 reignited hype.
Critics argue Khabib’s aura of invulnerability—never losing a round—sets an impossible standard. Yet Till’s faith in Chimaev’s “evolved dominance” suggests a new blueprint for greatness. Whether Chimaev can balance durability with spectacle remains the ultimate question.
Comparisons between legends and rising stars are inevitable, but Khamzat Chimaev’s journey is uniquely his own. If he stays healthy and hungry, Till’s prophecy might just materialize. For now, the MMA world watches, wondering if “Borz” can soar higher than the Eagle.
