Khamzat ‘The Wolf’ Chimaev has been hungry for a fight since his last victory against Kevin Holland in 2022. He has called out multiple names for a dance inside the cage. However, ‘Borz’ doesn’t have an official opponent yet. Among the names, ‘Borz’ is the former champion Kamaru Usman. Interestingly, Usman is also targeting Chimaev for his return. They both have even exchanged verbal jabs with each other.
But UFC president Dana White has stated that he will allow this fight only on one condition. Let’s dive in on Khamzat Chimaev’s situation in the UFC.
Khamzat Chimaev next fight: What did the UFC boss Dana White say?
Khamzat Chimaev has been constantly calling out ‘The Nigerian Nightmare’ on social media. He has even claimed to retire the former UFC champion. In one of his recent tweets, ‘Borz’ stated that Usman’s time in the sport was over. He said:
“@USMAN84kg I respect you, you were one of the best, you know you’re old bro, and you know it’s my time.”
@USMAN84kg I respect you, you were one of the best, you know you’re old bro, and you know it’s my time 💯
— Khamzat Chimaev (@KChimaev) May 12, 2023
Apparently, both the parties, Chimaev and Usman, seem interested to face each other inside the UFC cage. However, the Swedish-born Russian fighter faced difficulties in making weight at 170lbs for his previous bout with Nate Diaz.
Thus, the former champion Usman agreed to fight him at catchweight. However, UFC supremo Dana White is against the idea. He believes the fight makes sense at the middleweight. White even stated that Chimaev is having ‘personal stuff’ in his life. Thus, there is a delay in his fight, and not because the UFC isn’t making it.
Is Usman vs. Chimaev a fight to make?
Yes, Chimaev vs. Usman currently seems like a viable option, given the UFC welterweight scenario. Usman has suffered back-to-back losses against Leon Edwards. Thus, he wants to map his way back for a title shot.
If Usman defeats Chimaev, he will surely regain his footing atop the division. Meanwhile, ‘Borz’ has been wanting a title shot since he joined UFC and bagged back-to-back victories.
As a result, if he defeats Usman, a previous champion, he would undoubtedly solidify his status as the next contender for the belt. Given the circumstances, Chimaev vs. Usman appears to be the best match-up.
Furthermore, the recent heat between them has added to the gravity of their clash. As a result, it will be a show for the spectators as well as excellent business for the UFC.
What do you guys think about this fight? Do you guys think the UFC will make it next?
