Key Stats: 9.03 strikes landed per minute, 4.67 takedowns per 15 minutes, 3:13 average fight time
What It Means: Perhaps the biggest breakout star of 2020, Khamzat Chimaev could be the most intriguing unranked fighter on the roster. Chimaev is an athletic and vicious grappler who will dish out ground-and-pound punishment in every opportunity, but he also has wild power in his hands, as well. He has shown that one-punch power in previous professional fights, so that must be respected.
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What to Look For in the Fight: Li is Chimaev’s biggest test yet, so it should show where “Borz” is in terms of the rest of the division. Chimaev has the grappling advantage at least pedigree-wise, but Li is no joke, and he could very well change the tide with just a couple of strikes. He’s a patient fighter who likes a high pace, and how Chimaev reacts to that approach is key.
*Hasn’t competed enough in weight class to qualify in UFC Record Book
Don’t miss the ESPN+ special presentation of UFC 267: Blachowicz vs Teixeira on Saturday October 30th, 2021. Please note special broadcast times — prelims begin at 10:30am ET/7:30am PT, with the two-title fight main card starting at 2pm ET/11am PT.
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