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Paul Craig believes that Khamzat Chimaev will prove to be an overwhelming challenge for Paulo Costa. In a highly anticipated bout set for UFC 294 on October 21 at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, Chimaev (12-0 MMA, 6-0 UFC) is making his middleweight comeback against the former title contender, Costa (14-2 MMA, 6-2 UFC).
Craig, having achieved a victorious 185-pound debut by securing a Round 2 TKO against Andre Muniz at UFC Fight Night 224, is enthusiastic about Khamzat Chimaev’s potential and anticipates his grappling prowess to overpower Costa.
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In his latest middleweight display, Chimaev made a remarkable appearance in September 2020, requiring a mere 17 seconds to deliver a knockout blow to Gerald Meerschaert.
“I’ve always rated Chimaev,” Craig told Middle Easy. “He’s (got) that scary Russian grappling mode, you know, that those guys have got. So, I reckon he should be able to impose his will on Costa. But Costa’s this big, powerful 185er, so it’s going to be interesting to see. That’s why the UFC has made this.
Paul Craig further explained his perspective, expressing that if he were to wager, his money would be on Chimaev to secure a finish, likely within the first three rounds. He doesn’t foresee the fight going the full distance. According to Craig, Chimaev’s superior grappling skills will play a crucial role, and it’s the distinctive jiu-jitsu techniques that could ultimately lead him to victory. However, Craig also acknowledged the uncertainty that comes with facing an opponent like Costa, especially considering his potential performance with the alleged advantages of “secret juice.”
“But if I was a betting man, then I would go for Chimaev to finish him, probably under three rounds. I don’t see that going the distance. I feel that Chimaev will just out-grapple him and wear him down, and as I say, it’ll be that dotted jiu-jitsu that will help him seal that victory. But as I say, Costa, especially on that secret juice, who knows how he’ll do against him.”
Following his victory over Muniz, Craig (17-6-1 MMA, 9-6-1 UFC) openly voiced his desire for a bout with Chimaev. In the light heavyweight division, Craig boasts impressive finishes against notable opponents such as former UFC champion Jamahal Hill, former title challenger Magomed Ankalaev, and the formidable top contender Nikita Krylov.
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