Sean Strickland has offered a pointed assessment of Khamzat Chimaev’s wrestling credentials after training with Yaroslav Amosov at American Top Team in Florida. The UFC middleweight champion said the Ukrainian welterweight brings a stronger grappling game than Chimaev.
“He has better grappling than Chimaev,” Strickland said after getting in grappling rounds with Amosov. The comment came while Strickland was helping Johnny Eblen prepare for his next fight.
Amosov also reflected on the session in a video posted to his YouTube channel. “Hard partner, hard champion, but crazy, funny crazy,” Amosov said of Strickland.
A Comparison Shaped by Recent Results
Strickland entered his middleweight title challenge against Chimaev as a major underdog at UFC 328 in May. Chimaev appeared exhausted in the second round and moved away from his wrestling-heavy approach as Strickland outworked him on the feet for a decision victory.
| Fighter | Record | Recent Context |
|---|---|---|
| Sean Strickland | 31-7 | Won the middleweight title from Khamzat Chimaev by decision |
| Yaroslav Amosov | 30-1 | Has submitted both UFC opponents after joining the promotion |
| Khamzat Chimaev | Not stated | Lost a decision to Strickland at UFC 328 |
The training exchange carries added weight because Strickland has competed directly against Chimaev and experienced his wrestling attack in a championship fight. His appraisal places Amosov’s grappling ahead of an opponent widely known for relying heavily on takedowns and ground control.
Amosov’s UFC Momentum
Amosov left Bellator MMA following the only loss of his professional career, a 2023 defeat to Jason Jackson. He then won on the regional circuit before signing with the UFC, according to www.sherdog.com.
Since arriving in the UFC, Amosov has finished both of his opponents by submission. His most recent win came against Joel Alvarez on the Chimaev vs. Strickland undercard.
Strickland’s praise highlights the demanding level of work taking place at American Top Team as Amosov continues his UFC run. The middleweight champion’s assessment also adds a new layer to comparisons involving Chimaev’s grappling after their title fight.
