Khamzat Chimaev Calls Out Entire UFC Roster for Delaying Much-Anticipated Title Defense

UFC middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev calls out 185 pound contenders for not accepting a fight against him.

Khamzat Chimaev Calls Out Entire UFC Roster for Delaying Much-Anticipated Title Defense

Khamzat Chimaev talks about why he is not fighting (via MMA Mania)

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Khamzat Chimaev’s dominance in the UFC is difficult to dispute, with his grappling-heavy and wrestling-focused style setting him apart from other contenders. His control and pressure have defined his success in the promotion. However, following his championship win at UFC 319, there has been no official news on his next matchup. The Chechen superstar recently addressed the factors behind his inactivity.

Chimaev claimed the middleweight title at UFC 319 by defeating Dricus Du Plessis in one of the most dominant unanimous decisions in UFC history, earning 50-44 scores on all three judges’ cards. The performance showcased his complete control across five rounds as DDP was unable to defend himself. That level of dominance immediately raised questions about whether anyone could defeat ‘Borz’.

The 185-pound kingpin was expected to return early next year, but plans changed after a serious foot injury requiring surgery sidelined him for about 5 months. His timeline is also affected by Ramadan in February, during which he will observe fasting. He was recently at MT GYM 23 in Austria for a meet-and-greet with children and gymgoers. During the appearance, Chimaev spoke about the delay in his next fight.

When is my next fight? Nobody wants to fight, brother. What should we do?

Khamzat Chimaev via MTGYM23

Chimaev’s comments have fueled discussion around a potential matchup with No. 2-ranked middleweight Nassourdine Imavov. The French fighter has repeatedly called out the champion and reinforced his case with a dominant win over Caio Borralho at UFC Paris. The performance firmly put him in title contention, leading Chimaev to recognize the French-Dagestani middleweight as a leading challenger.

Following his UFC 319 title win, Chimaev had indicated plans for a significant increase in activity as champion. However, his career has been repeatedly disrupted by injuries and health setbacks, leading to long layoffs. Earlier in his UFC run, complications from illness forced him out of competition for nearly a year. More recently, recurring injuries have continued to slow his momentum despite his dominance.

Beyond the middleweight division, Khamzat Chimaev has also set his sights on a potential superfight with UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira. The callout underscores his ambition to pursue legacy-defining matchups across weight classes. While questions remain about timing and availability, the Chechen superstar’s recent comments suggest confidence in securing a high-profile return.

Khamzat Chimaev talks about which fight was the toughest experience for him

Khamzat Chimaev’s early UFC career appeared untouchable, as he absorbed just one significant strike across his first four fights while finishing every opponent. That aura shifted at UFC 273 when he faced Gilbert Burns. Although Chimaev won the bout by decision, the contest proved far more competitive than expected. The performance raised questions about his dominance over top-ranked opponents.

Kamaru Usman comes to Khamzat Chimaev's aid
Kamaru Usman comes to Khamzat Chimaev’s aid (via MMA Fighting)

‘Borz’ followed the Burns fight with an emphatic D’Arce choke submission of Kevin Holland, quickly reasserting his finishing ability. However, doubts resurfaced after his short-notice bout against Kamaru Usman at UFC 294. The fight ended in a majority decision, leading to further speculation. ‘Borz’ recently pointed to the challenges he faced with his preparation during that period.

I moved from Sweden to Abu Dhabi, that’s why it was harder for me to train. I didn’t have a good team around me, just some friends – that’s why that fight was difficult for me.

Khamzat Chimaev via MTGYM23

Khamzat Chimaev’s reflections on his early UFC challenges highlight the resilience that has defined his career. Despite questions about his dominance against top opponents, he has consistently adapted to difficult circumstances. The experiences against Burns and Usman showcased both his skill and ability to overcome setbacks.

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