UFC 328 sees rare double upset: fighters with 8+ takedowns lose title bouts

At UFC 328, a rare statistical anomaly occurred twice when fighters who executed 8 or more takedowns in title fights both lost their bouts. Historically, UFC fighters who land 5 or more takedowns in title fights win 81.08% of the time, and those with 7 or more win 83% of the time. Khamzat Chimaev landed 9 takedowns and Taku Taiara landed 8, with Taiara controlling nearly 11 minutes, yet both were defeated and finished. The post analyzes that while elite wrestlers maintain 80% win probability, total well-roundedness remains superior, as wrestling is energy-intensive and vulnerable to weight cuts, injuries, and opponent skill. It suggests Chimaev should develop more universal striking skills and notes Taiara's inability to secure his signature back mount against Brandon Van despite multiple takedowns.