Jiri Prochazka slams Khamzat Chimaev for not following through with trash talk

Jiri Prochazka wants fighters to walk the talk. Khamzat Chimaev put his middleweight title on the line against Sean Strickland in the main event at UFC 328 on Saturday in Newark, New Jersey. There appeared to be serious bad blood between the two leading up to the fight.

However, Chimaev and Strickland surprised fans by touching gloves and exchanging smiles before the opening bell. While Chimaev (15-1) dominated Strickland (31-7) on the ground in the first round, the tide turned in the second round. Chimaev completely discarded his wrestling following a failed shot in the second round, while Strickland gradually took over.

Although Chimaev held his own on the feet, Strickland did enough in the judges’ eyes to earn a split decision victory in a huge upset. Strickland and Chimaev also showed mutual respect after the fight. A Warrior's Duty Prochazka called out Chimaev for failing to back up his trash talk with action.

While Chimaev had promised to be a “bully” and a “terrorist” to Strickland, he was all smiles inside the Octagon. Prochazka says that while one might portray a persona to fans, they have to live the part when the time comes. Prochazka also congratulated Strickland on his performance.