Analysis suggests Chimaev may have prepared for light heavyweight debut

An analyst has proposed a theory from Vlad Matveev suggesting Khamzat Chimaev may have originally been preparing for a light heavyweight debut before plans changed at the last moment, which could explain his cardio issues at UFC 328. Despite working with top-tier sports science professionals, Chimaev's conditioning only lasted approximately one round against Sean Strickland. The post notes that Chimaev appeared submissive to Strickland's pace by the second round, despite pre-fight hostilities where he continuously extended friendly gestures. The analyst expressed skepticism that such elite preparation would result in single-round cardio, lending credence to the weight class change theory.