Khamzat Chimaev nearly untouchable in first rounds, absorbing only 24 strikes

Over nine UFC fights, Khamzat Chimaev has absorbed only 24 significant strikes in first rounds, with 18 of those coming from Gilbert Burns alone. Five of his nine opponents, including Dricus Du Plessis, failed to land a single significant strike in the opening five minutes against him. This defensive dominance in early rounds has become a hallmark of Chimaev's fighting style. With his upcoming bout against Sean Strickland, observers expect the pattern to continue, though some believe Strickland's jab could challenge the statistic. The data underscores Chimaev's ability to control fights from the opening bell.