RAF Abu Dhabi: Khamzat Chimaev on UFC future, UAE home and being ready to 'smash someone'
Some fighters have an aura about them, projecting an almost palpable sense of impending doom. They intimidate opponents with the confidence of someone who knows they have the firepower to back it up. There is an almost preternatural belief in their presence, as if they already know their opponent is beaten before the fight has even begun. Think of Mike Tyson in his prime. Khamzat Chimaev is…
Khamzat Chimaev appears intense and intimidating in interviews, projecting an aura of confidence that suggests he already knows he will emerge victorious from any fight. His reputation preceded him as he made his UFC debut in Abu Dhabi, submitting John Phillips in record time and TKO'ing Rhys McKee shortly after. Chimaev's impressive win streak included victories over Gilbert Burns, Kevin Holland, Kamaru Usman, and Robert Whittaker, who even walked away with fractured teeth.
However, Chimaev's middleweight title reign came to an abrupt end when he lost a split decision to Sean Strickland at UFC 328 – his only loss in 16 MMA fights. Since then, Chimaev has been primarily focused on his appearances in the Real American Freestyle (RAF) wrestling organization, marking the UFC's expansion into the Middle East with a five-year partnership.
Chimaev became a UAE citizen in 2025, embracing his adopted home with enthusiasm, describing it as one of the best places in the world and safe. Despite his absence from the UFC, Chimaev expresses no uncertainty about his future, waiting for the call from the promotion. He remains one of the UFC's biggest draws and a prominent Muslim figure in combat sports, but his primary motivation for competing in RAF is his love for training, competing, and wrestling.
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- Khamzat Chimaev on UFC future, UAE home and RAF Abu Dhabi: 'I'm ready' thenationalnews.com
