Khamzat Chimaev is here. On Saturday, Chimaev finally did what so many thought he would do years ago and claimed UFC gold, dominating Dricus du Plessis with one of the most impressive title challenger performances in years.

With fans and pundits expecting a period of dominance from the new middleweight champion, who – if anyone – can stop the Chimaev? And why might it be important that someone does?

During a recent video uploaded to the YouTube channel of Adam Zubayraev, another member of the new champ’s entourage, Tsarukyan reflected on Chimaev’s victory and admitted he had pushed for ‘Borz’ to perform as he did.