Entering the UFC 319 middleweight title bout, not many believed that the undefeated contender Khamzat Chimaev could pull it off. Dricus du Plessis, of course, was also undefeated but is known to be a beast when it comes to his agility. On the other hand, Chimaev’s endurance is his blinding spot. Although he kept sharing videos of his ruthless cardio workouts under head coach Javier Mendez’s brother, Ilir Latifi, nothing much changed. Many even questioned if his post-win title defense would ever come. But last Saturday, Chimaev silenced his doubters.

At Chicago’s United Center, Chimaev showed his utter dominance in the five-round thriller. Claiming the middleweight throne, he impressed everyone and proved Dana White’s “massive superstar” prediction from 2020 correct for him. Jon Jones, at the same time, was also impressed. But he has one thing he now wants Chimaev to stick to.

After the latest episode of NFL legend Shannon Sharpe’s podcast, ‘Club Shay Shay,‘ was aired, Jones reacted to the podcast guest and archrival Daniel Cormier’s critiques. Tweeting his reaction, he wrote, “When DC tells his story, somehow I’m always the co-star. 😂 Thanks @ShannonSharpe84 for the invite, even if I was only there in spirit. #Airbnb.” Then, one of Jones’ followers asked, “Jon thoughts on Chimaevs performance ?”

That’s when the fighter eyeing a UFC White House fight card said, “His control was outstanding; it was a brilliant performance. I’m sure he’ll take a lot from this dominant showing, and next time we’ll probably see him chase more finishes.”

While Jones clearly was impressed by the freshly minted middleweight title holder’s fight, he, too, took a small dig at his absence from the octagon. Previously, Chimaev withdrew from his fights due to sickness. At other times, it was the US visa complications. However, as some reports suggest, he has taken care of the physical barriers. As for his health, he is maintaining distance from anyone he believes can get him sick as well.

Still, notwithstanding Jones’s remarks, it’s a point raised by a few others as well. For one, Paulo Costa doesn’t agree with how Chimaev fought.

Paula Costa did not like how Khamzat Chimaev won

Costa and Chimaev were locked in for a duel at UFC 294. Only the matchup underwent a last-minute change. Kamaru Usman replaced the Brazilian, who pulled out on account of an elbow injury. But that didn’t stop him from sharing his thoughts on UFC 319. Speaking with Ariel Helwani, Costa said, “He did horrible. This is horrible for the watchers. This is not good. People will watch something else. They will not watch these guys hugging each other for 25 minutes.”

According to Costa, Khamzat Chimaev risks appearing boring. Technique-wise, he felt the Chechen used the crucifix technique more to drain Dricus du Plessis. He could have opted for a clear finish. Similar thoughts were expressed on ‘The Fighter vs. The Writer‘s latest episode.

Matt Brown thought that the title win was boring despite a good review. “I thought Khamzat fought very intelligently. I do feel like, again, watching from the outside, I feel like he could have done more,” he reportedly said.

Now, the opinions may be divided. After losing the initial rounds, du Plessis tried to make a breakthrough in the fourth, but it was too little, too late. Khamzat Chimaev fought him the best way he could.

Dana White reportedly suggested a few names for a face-off against Chimaev, potentially on the UFC 321 card in Abu Dhabi. So fans could look forward to the Chechen bringing out his striking skills in the open to deliver many exciting finishes. With many also disagreeing with the title finish, do you agree with Jon Jones’ opinions about Khamzat Chimaev’s performance?