UFC needs to keep ‘unbelievably talented’ Khamzat Chimaev more active

ABU DHABI – In the aftermath of UFC 294, Dana White, the CEO of the UFC, expressed his intention to streamline Khamzat Chimaev’s fighting schedule. Chimaev returned to the octagon after a lengthy hiatus to face Kamaru Usman in a middleweight co-main event at Etihad Arena. Despite Usman’s late-game rally, Chimaev secured a majority decision victory, bolstering his record to 13-0.

Chimaev’s splendid performance left White in awe, and he is eager to keep the talented fighter consistently active. White commended Chimaev’s skills and noted the challenges he faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, which contributed to the need for Chimaev’s increased participation.

Chimaev’s triumph over Usman earned him a shot at the title. His extended absence from the sport was due to travel constraints, prompting the Chechen athlete to relocate to the United Arab Emirates.

Additionally, Chimaev revealed that he suspects he sustained a broken right hand during round one of his match against Usman. This injury hindered his grappling ability, creating uncertainties about his potential title bout against Sean Strickland, the current UFC middleweight champion. White hopes Chimaev’s hand is not fractured and that they can proceed with the title fight smoothly.

For more details about the event, visit the MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC 294.

Story originally appeared on MMA Junkie