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via Imago

via Imago

In the lead-up to UFC 294, where Khamzat Chimaev is set to face off against Paulo Costa, tensions are escalating between these two middleweight fighters. What began as a post-fight callout has now transformed into a full-blown rivalry. It’s evident that both fighters can’t wait to settle their differences inside the octagon. 

Now, adding fuel to the fire, a UFC Hall-of-Famer has chimed in with his take on this UFC 294 Middleweight clash. What’s more – he has made some intriguing arguments about how this fight may turn out to be. But that’s not all – this veteran laid out a grim reminder to the unbeaten Swedish UFC star, highlighting a lesser-known aspect of ‘Borrachinha’s fighting prowess.

Michael Bisping weighs in on Paulo Costa vs. Khamzat Chimaev UFC 294 clash

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Michael Bisping, aka ‘The Count’ recently turned to his YouTube channel to share his thoughts on the upcoming UFC 294 middleweight clash. Weighing in on ‘Borz’s chances against Costa, he made some intriguing arguments. 

He emphasized Costa’s victory over Yoel Romero, highlighting the Brazilian’s wrestling prowess. Bisping declared, “This is the key performance for Paulo Costa… He beat Yoel Romero! Khamzat Chimaev is an incredible wrestler and [I’m] sure the man can bang. The man’s got power in the hands…”

Comparing accolades, he pointed out that while Chimaev is undoubtedly a skilled wrestler, Romero boasts Olympic medals, setting him apart. Bisping opined, “But in terms of wrestling – accolades – Khamzat’s accolades versus Yoel Romero’s… Yoel Romero was an Olympic medalist. Khamzat Chimaev was the Swedish national champion. I’m sure the Swedish can wrestle their asses off – but they’re not getting medals at the Olympics!”

He further elaborated his POV, adding, “Anyways, so when you look at that – I think Costa has the anti-wrestling to stop the wrestling offense of Khamzat Chimaev. What happens then? Well, it plays out on the feet. And Paulo Costa – that man can take a beating… the man can take a shot. He can stop takedowns! This is a very difficult fight for Khamzat Chimaev.”

Chimaev still taking shots at Paulo Costa ahead of UFC 294 clash

With their UFC showdown just a month away, ‘Borz’ has unapologetically issued a chilling threat aimed squarely at his opponent. In a viral internet clip, the Chechen fighter minced no words, proclaiming, “Paulo, you are a dead man! Just be sure to come up to the cage. Beat you up, send you back in the package to Brazil. But still in Brazil, they don’t want you. No countries recognize you.”

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But this isn’t the first instance of Chimaev resorting to such confrontational tactics. However, this time, the tension between Chimaev and Costa is undeniably genuine. The roots of this feud trace back to Chimaev’s callout after his victory over Li Jingliang at UFC 267. ‘Borrachinha’ rejected the challenge, citing a substantial size advantage as his rationale. Fast forward a year, and the two fighters nearly came to blows just days before ‘Borz”s UFC 279 bout against Kevin Holland.

Read More: “He’s Punishing Him for the Nate Fight” – Fans React as Khamzat Chimaev Unloads on Dana White for Sitting Idle in the UFC

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Despite both fighters having been relatively inactive recently, they remain among the most revered and well-known figures in the UFC roster. Consequently, the prospect of a clash between Chimaev and Costa has ignited a wildfire of excitement, ensuring that their impending showdown will be met with fervent anticipation from fans worldwide. What do you think? Who will come out on top when these two middleweight stars collide? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!

Watch this story: Is the Khamzat Chimaev vs Paulo Costa Fight Happening on UFC 294?