Khamzat Chimaev's Viral Jabs at Arman Tsarukyan's 'Influencer Phase' Amid UFC 328 Preparation
Khamzat Chimaev, the formidable UFC middleweight champion, has once again captured the spotlight with his recent viral remarks dismissing concerns about inactivity. As he immerses himself in rigorous training for his upcoming title defense against Sean Strickland at UFC 328, Chimaev's intense work ethic and aggressive personality are on full display. However, a lighthearted moment from his camp has gone viral, revealing a playful side to the fighter known as 'Borz'.
Playful Call-Out in Viral Gym Clip
In a widely shared video, Chimaev was seen calling his close friend and lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan from the gym after Tsarukyan failed to arrive on time for a training session. The interaction, filled with humor, showcased Chimaev's sharp wit as he jokingly labeled Tsarukyan a "sleeping machine" and mocked his tardiness. More pointedly, Chimaev teased that Tsarukyan now prefers spending time with influencers rather than training with serious wrestlers, even suggesting he should return to Jake Paul's gym. This playful dig hinted at a perceived shift in Tsarukyan's priorities, blending jest with underlying seriousness.
Truth Behind the Jokes: Tsarukyan's Social Media Ventures
Chimaev's comments, though delivered in a light-hearted tone, carry a kernel of truth. Arman Tsarukyan has recently expanded his visibility beyond the octagon by engaging with social media personalities. Notable activities include training sessions with Jake Paul during a visit to Armenia and appearances on livestreams with popular creators like N3on and Adin Ross. While these ventures have boosted his profile among broader audiences, they have also sparked discussions among hardcore MMA fans about his focus on the sport.
Chimaev did not stop there; he also poked fun at Tsarukyan's recent grappling session with former UFC flyweight Muhammad Mokaev, joking about the significant weight difference between the two fighters. This added layer of humor underscored Chimaev's no-nonsense approach to training, even as he shares a bond with Tsarukyan.
Evolution of a Fighter Friendship
The relationship between Chimaev and Tsarukyan has evolved significantly over time. Initially, Chimaev held a low opinion of Tsarukyan due to his flashy social media presence. However, after collaborating on a Russian reality fighting show and training together in Thailand, Chimaev's perspective shifted. He came to recognize Tsarukyan as disciplined, humble, and deeply dedicated to MMA, leading to a strengthened friendship built on shared experiences and mutual respect.
As Chimaev continues his unwavering preparation for UFC 328, this viral episode serves as a reminder of his multifaceted personality—combining fierce competitiveness with moments of camaraderie and humor. Fans eagerly await his title defense, where his intense mindset will be put to the test against Sean Strickland.
