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Khamzat Chimaev isn’t chasing an undefeated retirement like Khabib Nurmagomedov
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- Khamzat Chimaev isn’t chasing an undefeated retirement like Khabib Nurmagomedov
Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC
Khamzat Chimaev isn't worried about keeping his undefeated record intact.
So far, no one has been able to find an answer for what the UFC middleweight champion brings to the Octagon.
Chimaev captured the 185-pound title with a win over Dricus du Plessis in August, pushing his unbeaten professional MMA record to 15-0.
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While few can see who might hand him his first loss, Chimaev seems ready to take on challenges that could provide someone that chance.
Chimaev focused on titles, not record
Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC
Khamzat Chimaev isn't worried about protecting his unbeaten record in the UFC.
So far, no one in MMA has matched Khabib Nurmagomedov's legendary undefeated run, and Chimaev may be one of the few with a realistic shot at it.
But the middleweight champ isn't chasing that kind of legacy. Instead, he has his eyes set on becoming a two-division titleholder.
"I just want to become a double champion," Chimaev told the Jaxxon Podcast.
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"I'm not one of those guys that tries to (retire) from the UFC undefeated. I don't care."
He went on to add: "I just want to make some big (fights)."
Khabib Nurmagomedov's perfect record not enough to settle GOAT debate
Nurmagomedov is unique in that he retired without ever losing a fight. Still, even with such an impressive run, some feel his career is missing something.
Even though he's admired, the Dagestani isn't always included in the greatest-of-all-time discussions or Mount Rushmore picks among fans and analysts.
A lot of that comes down to when he walked away from the sport. He called it quits in 2020 after just three successful defences of his lightweight title.
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In terms of pure skill, there's no question Nurmagomedov is right up there with the best. But when you stack him against names like Jon Jones, Georges St-Pierre, Anderson Silva and Demetrious Johnson, many feel he doesn't have the same longevity or achievements needed to top those lists.
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