Khamzat Chimaev Makes Wild Promise to Africa Ahead of UFC 319

Middleweight title challenger Khamzat Chimaev makes an interesting promise to the people of Africa ahead of UFC 319 main event.


Khamzat Chimaev Makes Wild Promise to Africa Ahead of UFC 319

Khamzat Chimaev makes an interesting promise to Africa (via The Mirror/talkSport)

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There is undoubtedly a lot of hype surrounding the upcoming middleweight title fight between Khamzat Chimaev and the champion Dricus Du Plessis. Both fighters have dominated any challenge presented to them in the UFC to reach where they are now. However, this rivalry, though respectful, has its moments of trash talk and intense scenarios.

Chimaev is widely recognized for his trash-talking skills and mocking comments with words like “Smesh” and “Kill” on numerous occasions. He has used mindful tactics to get inside the head of his opponents, which has worked to his advantage in the past. Recently, ‘Borz’ took a jibe at DDP during the press conference ahead of their fight.

Africa never gonna see the belt again. Sorry guys.

Khamzat Chimaev during UFC 319 presser

‘Stillknocks’ has always been vocal about his nationality and has never missed an opportunity to represent his country. He has become a fan favorite in Africa and was welcomed with open arms after capturing championship gold. DDP has also pushed for an UFC event in his home country, where he has planned to defend his title.

The fight between ‘Borz’ and DDP promises to be a battle for the ages. Du Plessis is known for his pressure-oriented fighting style, which contributes to his well-rounded prowess. However, Chimaev looks to give a fight of equal measure using his superior grappling and control, which adds to his strength.

Chimaev is coming off a strong performance against former champion Robert Whittaker, which earned him the championship bout. DDP recently defeated former middleweight champion and legend Israel Adesanya, in addition to a dominating his rematch against Sean Strickland.

There have been a few moments of intensity between the two main event fighters; however, they have shown respect for each other on various instances. Both fighters are yet to experience defeat in the UFC, which has added an extra layer of anticipation for the matchup.

Khamzat Chimaev builds a gym in his village in Chechnya

Khamzat Chimaev is known for his powerful and dominating performances and ruthless demeanor inside the octagon. Working hard in the gym and always pushing the pace is what the Chechen fighter is known for. However, there is another side to the 31-year-old that is not often seen online.

Khamzat chimaev builds a gym in Chechnya
Khamzat Chimaev is building a gym in Chechnya (via MMA Fighting)

Chimaev has always valued his ancestry and contributed to the well-being of others. He was recently observed building a gym in his village in Chechnya. ‘Borz’ claimed that it was time to “give back to the people” because he had always been treated with compassion. He confessed that people saw him as Khamzat Chimaev, their brother, rather than an international superstar.

It’s not gym for me, I’m building for the kids… Kids have to be safe, not on the streets. Have to be in the gym. Gym makes you stronger guy. Mentally and physically.

Khamzat Chimaev via UFC on X

The title challenger believes in building a safe and healthy environment for the children of his village. He wants to inspire the children to pursue MMA and wrestling as a career. According to Chimaev, the entire reason for building the gym is to help people who cannot afford better facilities. He does not want the youth of his village to go through the same hardships that he has faced.

Fans are used to seeing the dangerous and ruthless side of Chimaev. However, this side of the Chechen superstar is rarely seen or celebrated among the MMA fan base. There is no doubt that if Chimaev proceeds to win championship gold from Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 319, he will receive a hero’s welcome in his village.

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