At UFC 308, Khamzat Chimaev made a resounding return to the Octagon after a year-long layoff, delivering a statement-making performance against former middleweight champion Robert Whittaker. Chimaev, ranked No. 13, wasted no time as he secured a first-round submission via face crank at 3:34, reinforcing his undefeated record and cementing his reputation as a dominant force in the UFC middleweight division.
True to form, Chimaev set the pace from the opening bell, immediately diving for a takedown. Whittaker, known for his solid defensive skills and fight IQ, initially fought off the attempt. However, Chimaev’s relentless grappling pressure forced Whittaker onto the mat, with Chimaev quickly maneuvering to take his back. The early takedown dictated the round, putting Whittaker in a defensive position against one of the UFC’s most feared ground specialists.
Though Whittaker managed to scramble out of trouble briefly, it was clear that Chimaev’s grappling skills were on another level. As Whittaker attempted to reset, Chimaev wasted no time closing the gap, applying intense pressure and regaining control on the mat. Chimaev’s persistence paid off, as he capitalized on a momentary opening to sink in a face crank. The hold was tight, and Whittaker, unable to withstand the pressure, tapped out at 3:34 of the first round.
With this submission victory, Chimaev extends his unbeaten record to 14-0, while Whittaker, ranked No. 3, falls to 27-8. For Chimaev, this win is a pivotal moment, signaling his readiness to challenge the division’s top contenders and possibly earn a title shot in the near future. His performance against a former champion showcased not only his grappling prowess but also his adaptability and fight-ending precision.
After this dominant victory over one of the division’s elite, Chimaev’s stock in the middleweight ranks is likely to skyrocket.
