It has been one of the most hyped MMA matches in a long time. The clash between the unorthodox Dricus Du Plessis and the explosive Khamzat Chimaev, whose two very different styles paved the way for an unpredictable and even match. Many speculated that Chimaev would come out hard, early, but that Du Plessis had a great chance of winning if the match dragged on. But that's not how it turned out.
Chimaev dominated Du Plessis with wrestling and managed to land both punches and elbows to the head of the former World Champion. After five rounds, the judges ruled that Chimaev was the new World Champion. Undefeated with 15 wins.
He has gained a dedicated following of fans in recent years, but has also been criticized for his close relationship with Chechnya's leader Ramzan Kadyrov, also known as "Putin's attack dog", who has been accused of serious human rights abuses such as murder, torture and persecution of homosexuals.
Khamzat Chimaev was born in Chechnya but moved to Sweden as an asylum seeker in 2011. During his twelve years here, he became Swedish champion in freestyle wrestling and started fighting for UFC. Nowadays, he is based in Dubai and represents the United Arab Emirates in UFC.
I want to thank my country, Abu Dhabi, the United Arab Emirates. Thanks for the great support. I want to thank His Majesty the King as well. Thank you so much, brother, said Chimaev during the victory interview, reports Expressen.
