Published 02/20/2023, 10:00 AM EST
UFC star Khamzat Chimaev is short of challengers for his next fight inside the Octagon. The Chechen fighter’s last trip to the steel cage took place in September 2022, when he made quick work of his opponent, Kevin Holland. Since then, the Swede has been on the lookout for his next opponent. Recently, he also issued an open challenge to the former middleweight champion Robert Whittaker. However, uncertainty shrouds the details. Amid this ever-persistent issue of finding an opponent, the surging contender is now away from the ring for quite a long time, given his fighting career stats. Realizing the same, the ‘Borz’ recently gave a timeline of his much-awaited return.
Notably, the Swedish fighter possesses a record for the fastest three-fight winning streak in modern UFC history. Despite his unprecedented record, the 28-year-old suffered from Covid complications and had troubles with weight cuts. As a result, his appearance inside the cage became sporadic. However, the wrestler took to Instagram and clarified his intention to return after the conclusion of a major festivity.
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Khamzat Chimaev drops the timeline of his return
The perfect 12-0 record holder disclosed to the fans they could expect to witness him exchanging blows inside the Octagon after Ramadan.
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – SEPTEMBER 10: Khamzat Chimaev of Russia has his hands wrapped prior to his fight during the UFC 279 event at T-Mobile Arena on September 10, 2022 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC)
Thus, he wrote, “We’ll be back after Ramadan Insha’Allah ☝🏼”
How did the fans react to Chimaev’s announcement?
While some fans expressed their desire to extend his undefeated run, others pointed out the potential challenger he might face next.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Khamzat Chimaev (@khamzat_chimaev)
A user commented, “So that’s when anyone can help a brother out”
Someone wrote, “Champions after Ramadan InshAllah 13-0”
A comment read, “Go from fighting 4x in 2 months and now once a year……”
A fan announced, “InshaAllah brother smesh the welter/middle 🔥👏🙌❤️”
Expressing their eagerness, a user said, “Nooooo they couldn’t get you a fight before 🤦♂️”
A fan mentioned it was a smart decision to not fight during Ramadan.
Someone stated, “Everyone scared of you brother… We wanna see you SMASH somebody”
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A fan speculated, “UFC 288 May?Against Colby Covington?”
Lastly, a response challenged him to fight Colby Covington.
Chimaev was scheduled to fight Nate Diaz in the latter’s last contractual fight at UFC 279. However, he missed the weight and instead fought ‘Trailblazer,’ where he amassed a sweeping victory.
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When do you think the UFC star Khamzat Chimaev will mark his return to the Octagon? Do you believe the Swede will challenge for the title in the immediate future? Let us know in the comments below.