It seems that fans are redirecting their anger of Khamzat Chimaev and to his most prominent corner man.
Chimaev left Chicago with a considerably heavier suitcase thanks to the addition of UFC Gold, which he claimed with an emphatic version in the United Center.
In last Saturday's main event at UFC 319, Chimaev Dricaev Du Plessis of the middleweight throne escaped and became the first man to defeat the South African in the promotion. However, the way in which 'Borz' became champion caused a stir.
The fight was one of the most expected of 2025 so far, but did not fall due to the expectations that many had, with Chimaev du Plessis checking more than 21 minutes while he did little to push for a finish.
Apparently that was not the unbeaten Chechen Star's call …
Arman Tsarukyan admits that he has rejected Khamzat Chimaev's request to change style on UFC 319
One of the most important names in the UFC 319 camp of Chimaev was Arman Tsarukyan, the best lightweight competition for the promotion.
The Russian-Armens paused his focus on the urge for a title shot on 155 pounds to help Chimaev realize his title ambitions, to help his training before UFC 319 and guide him from the corner on Fight Night.
During a recent video that was uploaded to the YouTube channel of Adam Zubayraev, another member of the entourage of the new champion, Tsarukyan thought about the victory of Chimaev and admitted that he had insisted on 'Borz' to perform as he did.
“The plan was to struggle, try not to get into exchanges,” Tsarukyan said.
“I said to him:” The only way you can lose him is if you fight with him and take over your emotions. If you take him down and check him, then control him. Do not immediately rush the position for a submission and loss. It is better to win rounds than to go submissions, to lose, lose, lose, and losing him again. '' '
Tsarukyan later repeated that mentality and even revealed that he rejected Chimaev's request with du plessis before round four on UFC 319.
'Before he entered the fourth, he says:' Brother, can I move in the standup now? “I said,” No, go inside, do the same, you'll win three to nothing. “
“Why think something new?”
Fans Slam 'Coward' Arman Tsarukyan for Khamzat Chimaev's Polarizing UFC 319 GamePlan
Tsarukyan's recognition of responsibility divided the opinion into the MMA community.
Those who remained dissatisfied with the Main Event of UFC 319 took their frustration on the lightweight competition, with some so far that they called him a “coward” for his advice to Chimaev.
“So we were boring because of Arman …”
“Arman's advice was to block and prevent it at all costs (smiling emoji).”
“@Aranufc so it's your fault that the fight was s -this is why you don't get a title shot.”
“Arman is the definition of a coward. He risks nothing.”
“He damages the fighting company and the star row of Khamzat.”
“You suck Arman.”
But not everyone was critical. Others praised Tsarukyan for a logical approach that eventually saw his husband leave the cage with the UFC Middleweight title.
“Sound advice.”
“Solid advice, won the fight.”
“I thought exactly the same.”
“Solid team around him and good for him for listening to his corner.”
“Arman gave him the game of your life.”
“Khamzat was gone when he started beating DDP.”
“Arman Tsarukyan is that good friend to have around.”