Khamzat Chimaev was an overwhelming favorite to defeat Sean Strickland in his first defense as UFC middleweight champion, but after a dominant opening round, the Chechen mauler started running out of gas. He ultimately lost a razor-close split decision and has been chasing a rematch ever since.

UFC legend Jon Jones knows the former champion has every possible weapon to reclaim his title and avenge the first loss of his career.

"Big fan of Khamzat," Jones said. "It was hard to see him lose. It really was. I was really surprised by that fight."

Jones's Advice for Chimaev

"If I was Khamzat, I would work on my weaknesses. That's something I personally do before every fight," Jones said. "I would say switch up your endurance routine, maybe something different, and spend more time on your back. That way in the future, you're just so comfortable being there, maybe throw up some submissions and things like that."

Endurance was arguably the biggest issue Chimaev faced in that fight, which is why he was reportedly considering a move up to light heavyweight. But Chimaev eventually changed his mind and is now focused on competing at 185 pounds with hopes of seeing Strickland again.

The Mindset Factor

"Khamzat is a great kicker, a great boxer, and a great wrestler, especially when he puts you in that body lock," Jones said. "But we don't really see him on his back very often. I would go back to the drawing board. I would learn to be comfortable on my back and develop a strong jiu-jitsu game on my back and mainly focus on the mindset.

"I would imagine losing can change a fighter's mind, their confidence, the way they see themselves. Focus on your mindset. Losses happen. Sometimes the best version of people comes out after a loss."

As of now, Chimaev's next fight hasn't been booked, but he has continued to call out Strickland as he seeks an immediate rematch before 2026 is over.