“Don’t listen to any of that bulls–t. He’ll (Khamzat Chimaev) get in the United States,” Dana White told the media after UFC Saudi Arabia in February this year. Last November, White said on the Jim Rome Show, “We’ll see how this plays out here, but I want him to fight in the United States. I want him to fight for a title here in the U.S.” So, why hasn’t ‘Broz’ fought in the US yet? More importantly, is Donald Trump the key to this situation?
Why does Khamzat Chimaev fight only once a year despite not being the champion of his division? Many might believe that his immune system has hindered his comeback attempts. While this may hold some truth, the reality is that the Chechen fighter is banned from performing in the United States. Why? There are two main factors: Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and Chimaev’s close relationship with controversial high-profile figures such as Ramzan Kadyrov. However, amidst this chaos, ‘Borz’ might find a glimmer of hope, offering a possible path forward.
While having a conversation with Inside Fighting, Guram Kutateladze, who has a close relationship with Khamzat Chimaev asserted that his friend will be a UFC champion sooner than expected and he will be able to fight in the United States, as Donald Trump may resolve the passport ban issue for many Russian fighters. “He is going to be a champion,” said Kutateladze.
He further added, “I don’t think anybody can stop that guy. Have you seen him fighting? Nobody can stop him, so it’s just a matter of time. Trump becoming the president is good for the UFC and all UFC fighters. Hopefully, we’re gonna see him in the U.S., and he’s gonna fight for the belt—actually, wherever in the world—but I think it’s gonna be soon.”
The last time Khamzat Chimaev fought on American soil was at UFC 279, where he faced Kevin Holland. It has been three years since that event, and the Chechen fighter has competed only twice since then—both times outside the U.S. However, it seems the UFC must now ensure that its fighters compete more frequently on American soil. It must be noted that the undefeated warrior has taken up UAE’s citizenship which might help him to fight in the US.
Guram Kutateladze and the UFC might have their faith instilled in Donald Trump’s judgment; however, Chael Sonnen believes that there are more factors to the game than just his ban. Let’s have a closer look at it.
Chael Sonnen’s optimism about Khamzat Chimaev fighting on American soil
Recently, Khamzat Chimaev announced that he has obtained UAE citizenship, which might help him compete on American soil. This is significant, considering that ‘Borz’ was never actually a citizen of Sweden, despite representing the country on the global stage multiple times. Well, as much as this might help, Chael Sonnen believes that there are many factors that will come to play when Chimaev decides to fight in the US.
“According to the rumor and Chimaev, himself, he has travel issues. It’s the second time that this rumor has come up on Chimaev. The first time I’m the one that broke that it wasn’t true. So this rumour has now come up again and a bigger question is can he get to the match? And I would have to think yes. I would not think somebody could be named a No 1 contender if there was an intent to make good on that,” said Sonnen.
‘Borz’ in one of his statements clarified to Shakiel Mahjouri that his inability to travel to the United States was due to injuries and health issues, not any form of travel ban. Chimaev said, “I don’t think [it would be a problem], there’s a lot of s—- things [being said]. I’ve been in the U.S., and can come to the U.S. But, a lot of s— things have happened in my life. Being sick, having surgeries, so that’s why I’ve [not] been fighting [there] like before.”
As the dynamics of politics change due to uncertain circumstances such as the tumultuous relationship between Donald Trump and Vladimir Zelensky, the Russian fighters might find their way to the American Soil. Given that, what are your thoughts on the hubbub? State your opinion in the comments below.
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