UFC commentator and podcast host Joe Rogan has opined that Khamzat Chimaev has yet to encounter high-level wrestling opposition in his MMA career. Rogan's assessment suggests that despite Chimaev's dominance in the octagon, he has not been tested by elite wrestlers. The comment comes as Chimaev continues his rise through the UFC middleweight ranks. Chimaev himself is known for his strong wrestling credentials, having been a successful wrestler before transitioning to MMA. Rogan's analysis raises questions about how Chimaev would perform against opponents with comparable grappling skills.
UFC commentator Joe Rogan has publicly questioned whether Khamzat Chimaev has ever truly been tested on the mat, arguing that the undefeated middleweight contender has yet to face high-level wrestling opposition during his MMA career.
Rogan's remarks center on Chimaev's grappling credentials versus the quality of grappling he has encountered. While acknowledging Chimaev's dominance inside the octagon, Rogan suggested that elite wrestlers have not yet been placed in front of him — raising the question of how "Borz" would fare against someone capable of matching him in that dimension.
Chimaev, 32, carries a 15-1 record and currently sits as the number-one ranked middleweight in the UFC, as well as tenth in the pound-for-pound standings. The UAE-based fighter, who trains out of Allstars Training Center in Sweden, built his foundation in wrestling before transitioning to MMA. Those roots show clearly in his statistical profile: he averages 5.29 takedowns per 15 minutes, a figure that ranks among the most prolific in the division. He also lands 4.04 significant strikes per minute at a 60 percent striking accuracy, making him a genuine dual threat. His submission attempt rate of 1.8 per 15 minutes adds another layer of danger on the ground.
Why it matters
- Chimaev's ranking at number one in the middleweight division means any credible challenge to his grappling would carry major title implications.
- A matchup against an elite wrestler would answer the specific question Rogan raised about an untested dimension of his game.
- His combination of volume striking, takedown frequency, and submission activity makes him difficult to game-plan for regardless of style, but the wrestling question remains open.
