Chael Sonnen says Strickland loss to Chimaev would start Chechen's era of dominance

Chael Sonnen believes a victory by Khamzat Chimaev over Sean Strickland would mark the beginning of a long period of dominance by the Chechen fighter in the UFC. Sonnen recalled warning the UFC in 2012 about a "Russian invasion" of bearded fighters without mustaches who would claim all the belts. As a wrestler himself, Sonnen acknowledged the superior toughness and grit cultivated in that culture. He described Strickland as "our last line of defense," suggesting that if Chimaev defeats him, American MMA will face a Chimaev era that could last for years. Sonnen indicated it would be a long time before anyone could beat Chimaev if he passes this test.