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Randy Couture Reveals the Blueprint to Neutralizing Khamzat Chimaev’s Wrestling Dominance

Randy Couture Reveals the Blueprint to Neutralizing Khamzat Chimaev’s Wrestling Dominance

Khamzat Chimaev has firmly established himself as one of the most dominant grapplers in the UFC, employing a style that leaves his opponents scrambling for solutions. However, UFC Hall of Famer and wrestling legend Randy Couture believes he has the blueprint to counter Chimaev’s relentless approach.

Appearing on the Red Hawk Recap podcast with coach Tim Welch, Couture highlighted the importance of preparation and targeted training for fighters looking to compete against Chimaev. He stressed the need to simulate the unique scenarios Chimaev creates in fights, particularly his ability to control opponents and secure dominant positions like back control.

“You have to put yourself in those situations,” Couture said. “Have training partners who constantly push you into those same positions—ground control, ankle shackles, and that suffocating pressure. Build your camp around surviving and countering when you’re forced into a quarter position. That’s the style we see from Chimaev time and time again. It’s all about those 10 to 12 weeks of preparation, ensuring you’re ready to wrestle out of those key positions.”

Couture also called attention to a common mistake fighters make against Chimaev: conceding back control. He compared Chimaev’s tactics to the wrestling-heavy game plan of Tito Ortiz, known for dominating opponents through takedowns and unrelenting ground control.

“Too many fighters give up their back,” Couture noted. “It’s the same principle Tito [Ortiz] used—secure the takedown, smother your opponent, and land damage. Most of Tito’s victories came from controlling those positions. It’s not rocket science, but it’s incredibly effective when done right.”

Couture emphasized the role of wrestling techniques tailored for MMA as the best counter to Chimaev’s strategy. He highlighted Greco-Roman wrestling for its upright posture and clinch dominance and Folkstyle wrestling for its focus on control positions like leg riding and top dominance.

“Greco and Folkstyle wrestling are the most practical styles for MMA,” Couture added. “Greco gives you clinch strength and allows you to integrate trips and leg attacks that are otherwise restricted in traditional Greco competitions. Folkstyle teaches control, leg riding, and maintaining top dominance—all essential skills in MMA.”

Couture’s insights underline the necessity of intense, specialized preparation for any fighter hoping to neutralize Chimaev’s game. While the challenge is significant, the advice from one of MMA’s greatest wrestlers provides a clear strategy for those seeking to counter the dominance of the UFC’s rising grappling star.

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