Commentator Sanko Believes Khamzat Chimaev is Unstoppable...

After Khamzat Chimaev’s remarkable first-round submission victory over Robert Whittaker at UFC 308, MMA commentator Laura Sanko shared her thoughts on what this means for the middleweight division. Chimaev’s dominant performance against the former champion has sparked discussions about whether he should leapfrog Sean Strickland in the title queue, despite Dana White’s assurance that Strickland would be next after his win over Paulo Costa. In her recent analysis, Sanko weighed in with her respect for Strickland but emphasized Chimaev’s undeniable potential.

Chimaev’s Title-Bout Potential After Dominating Whittaker

Laura Sanko expressed her admiration for Chimaev’s recent win, noting how Whittaker, a former champion and division staple, was outmatched. According to Sanko, Chimaev demonstrated such dominance and minimal damage taken that he might be best positioned for a title shot.

“I’m a big Strickland fan and don’t want to say this, but I think Chimaev generated a high level of excitement after finishing one of the division’s best,”

she stated, underscoring how this victory cemented Chimaev’s place at the top.

The finish was notable not just for the outcome but for the manner in which Chimaev executed his strategy. A rear-naked choke in the first round ended the match, showcasing his superior grappling. Whittaker had been seen as one of the toughest tests for Chimaev, and the one-sided nature of the fight left Sanko convinced that he’s a “special talent.”

Sanko: “Chimaev’s Wrestling Too Strong to Neutralize”

When looking ahead to a possible showdown with current middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis, Sanko pointed out Chimaev’s well-rounded abilities. While known primarily for his wrestling, Chimaev’s striking has evolved significantly, as evidenced by his prior bout with Kamaru Usman. Sanko remarked, “I think Chimaev is too much. His kickboxing stands on par with du Plessis. I can’t imagine a fight where anyone neutralizes his wrestling.” This perspective underscores Sanko’s belief that Chimaev’s grappling strength, complemented by improved striking, makes him an overwhelming opponent for anyone in the middleweight division.

A Complicated Path Ahead for Strickland’s Title Shot

Dana White’s promise of a title shot for Sean Strickland adds another layer to the debate. Sanko empathized with Strickland, stating,

“It sucks for Sean because he was clearly supposed to be next. I hate it when fighters’ plans get altered like this.”

However, she acknowledged that changes in the title race are an unavoidable part of MMA’s evolving dynamics.

Chimaev’s potential as a title contender is undeniable following UFC 308, and he now appears poised to challenge for the belt, regardless of the original plans. His ability to dominate a high-caliber opponent like Whittaker has made a strong case, and Sanko’s endorsement reflects the MMA community’s growing excitement around Chimaev’s meteoric rise in the UFC.

Source: MMAnytt.se

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