MMA has always moved in cycles, like fashion trends that come and go. The early UFC days belonged to grapplers like Royce Gracie, who shocked the world by choking out bigger, stronger opponents with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Then came the era of well rounded fighters who could do everything decently but nothing exceptionally. Later, fans saw the rise of knockout artists and flashy strikers who could keep fights standing and create highlight-reel moments that filled arenas and pay-per-view buys.<\/p>
The striking era reached its peak with fighters like Israel Adesanya, who used elite takedown defense and creative footwork to keep dangerous grapplers at bay while picking them apart on the feet. For years, it seemed like the formula was simple: learn enough wrestling to stay upright, then use superior striking to win fights. But UFC 319 and the events before it might have marked the beginning of a new chapter in this ongoing evolution. Dominick Cruz, the former bantamweight champion known for his analytical mind and unparalleled footwork, believes we are witnessing the return of the grappler’s era. The evidence from Saturday night’s fights supports his theory in dramatic fashion.<\/p>
Khamzat Chimaev’s title winning performance against Dricus Du Plessis served as the perfect example of Cruz’s point. The Chechen fighter didn’t just win the middleweight belt. He completely dominated a skilled striker by turning the fight into a wrestling clinic. Chimaev controlled Du Plessis on the ground for most of the fight (21:40 min), landing an incredible 529 strikes compared to his opponent’s measly 45. This wasn’t just a wrestling victory; it was a statement that elite grapplers are finding ways to neutralize even the best strikers in the sport.<\/p>