Days Before Kamaru Usman Fight at UFC 294, Khamzat Chimaev Links Up With Knockout Artist Even Joe Rogan Is Terrified Of

Published Oct 18, 2023 | 7:03 AM EDT

In a world where UFC fighters punch and wrestle, a mosque isn’t your typical rendezvous. Yet, Twitter just dropped a bombshell. Khamzat Chimaev, MMA’s rising star, was spotted inside one. But he wasn’t alone. Beside him? Boxing’s very own bogeyman, Artur Beterbiev. Hands-on waists, they posed like old pals. Beterbiev’s knockout streak terrifies even stalwarts like Joe Rogan. At 37, Beterbiev defies time, punching as if he’s still 25.

What’s brewing between these two powerhouses? Is it just camaraderie or a fusion of martial strategies? As UFC 294 looms, Chimaev’s link-up with this knockout king sends ripples through the fighting community. Fighters meet, yes. But in mosques? With legends like Beterbiev?

Artur Beterbiev and Chimaev: A meeting beyond the ring

Artur Beterbiev isn’t just another name in the boxing realm. He’s a force to be reckoned with. With an unbeaten record, Beterbiev has secured 19 straight victories. And here’s the kicker: every single one of those wins was a knockout. Yes, you read that right. Every opponent who dared to face him ended up on the canvas.

This earned him the prestigious title of the only world champion in boxing with a 100% knockout ratio. And the excitement doesn’t stop there. Fans are eagerly waiting for his upcoming showdown against Callum Smith on January 13, 2024, in Quebec City. Postponed due to dental surgery, this fight promises fireworks as both champions will put their titles on the line.

Transitioning to the MMA world, Khamzat Chimaev’s record is equally stellar. His recent victory over Kevin Holland at UFC 279 solidifies his reputation as a formidable force. And now, an even bigger challenge awaits him. Originally slated to face Paulo Costa, a twist of fate sees him going toe-to-toe with Kamaru Usman at UFC 294. Usman, a former welterweight champion, steps in on short notice, creating a battle the MMA community can’t stop buzzing about.

Khamzat Chimaev and Artur Beterbiev #boxing pic.twitter.com/K5hQTCsYAv
— #CatterallLinares (@BatmanBoxing) October 17, 2023

Now, connecting these two worlds is that candid photo on Twitter. Captioned simply as “Khamzat Chimaev and Artur Beterbiev”, it portrays the duo inside a mosque, looking every bit the champions they are. With both fighters prepping for crucial bouts, this unexpected meet-up begs the question: Is this just a chance encounter, or is there a deeper strategy in play?

The worlds of boxing and MMA collided once again as a notable UFC personality also heaped praise on Beterbiev

Joe Rogan on Beterbiev

Joe Rogan, famed podcast host, delved deep into the prowess of Artur Beterbiev in an episode with Brian Redban. Overwhelmed, Rogan highlighted two captivating aspects of Beterbiev. Firstly, despite being 37, the boxer competes with the vigor and tenacity typical of fighters in their prime. Rogan noted, “In your twenties, you’re likely at your physical peak. But with athletes, that peak can extend into their thirties.”

Secondly, Beterbiev’s jaw-dropping record boasts a perfect 18-0, with every victory achieved via knockout. Rogan, unable to hide his admiration, emphasized, “He’s the only world champion in today’s boxing with a 100% knockout ratio. The guy is absolutely terrifying.” Indeed, Beterbiev’s recent triumph over Joe Smith Jr. for the light heavyweight title only solidified his reputation as a force to be reckoned with.

ALSO READ- “Give Us Bivol vs Beterbiev”: Dmitry Bivol’s Latest Training Video Leads Fans to Demand “The Master vs the Monster”

So, as the anticipation reaches fever pitch, one has to ponder: will their upcoming fights solidify their statuses as legends in their respective sports? What do you think?

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Written by:

Mrinal Mishra is a Boxing Writer at EssentiallySports. With over 800+ articles published on ES, Mrinal is known for his extensive coverage of live events, including the recent Canelo Alvarez vs. Jermell Charlo fight.

Edited by:

Amal Joyce