UFC 328 featured rare double losses despite 8+ takedown performances

UFC 328 saw a rare statistical anomaly occur twice in title fights. Historically, fighters who land 5+ takedowns in UFC title fights win 81.08% of the time, and those landing 7+ takedowns win 83% of the time. However, both Khamzat Chimaev and Tatsuro Taira landed 9 and 8 takedowns respectively and still lost their championship bouts. Taira particularly controlled Joshua Van for nearly 11 minutes with quality takedowns and full mount positions, yet was ultimately finished. The analysis suggests that while elite wrestling provides strong advantages, total MMA universalism combined with proper fight-specific preparation remains superior. The piece notes Chimaev showed potential as a complete mixed martial artist but was too straightforward in his approach and could benefit from more technical striking development and a specialized striking coach.