Khamzat Chimaev: The “Rodman” of the Octagon Seeks Glory at UFC 319
On a sunny Sunday morning, the talented fighter Khamzat Chimaev, known as “Borz”, was in his Californian home, preparing for a crucial moment. Just thirteen days away, the number two middleweight contender in the UFC ranking would face a championship for the first time, challenging the current champion, Dricus Du Plessis, at the UFC 319 event.
The anticipation was palpable. The mixed martial arts community had waited for this moment for years. However, Chimaev’s mind seemed to be elsewhere, wandering through the living room as if lost. His nutritionist and chef, Matteo Capodaglio, had lunch scheduled, but the plans were altered. Chimaev, after sleeping in more than expected and canceling a recovery session, chose to take the day easy. According to Johnathon Michael Knapek, a member of his team, this was reminiscent of the legendary Dennis Rodman of the NBA, who sometimes needed to take a break. “He’s becoming ‘Rodman’,” Knapek commented.Chimaev, following this instinct, decided to go to the beach. Although he is not a “beach guy”, this change of environment revitalized him. After swimming and doing a bit of shade, his mood improved noticeably, and for the first time that day, he mentioned Du Plessis. Back home, Chimaev joined his teammate Issa Isakov in a wrestling session on the sofa, while Capodaglio prepared a fresh lunch. Another “Rodman Day” had taken effect. For Chimaev’s team, it was comforting to see him like that. Furthermore, in thirteen days, the world would witness his fight for the UFC championship in the United States, a scenario in which the Russian fighter, residing in the United Arab Emirates, had not been since 2022 due to visa issues. There were times when it seemed this opportunity wouldn’t come, despite Chimaev’s talent and dedication. Rumors of a possible retirement if he won the championship in Chicago were denied by the fighter himself, who stated that he wouldn’t settle for just one title. The idea of retiring at 31, at the peak of his career, seemed absurd. Chimaev is coming off a dominant victory over Robert Whittaker and is one of the most popular and enigmatic fighters in the UFC. In 2021, Chimaev faced serious health problems after contracting COVID-19, which raised concerns about his future in the sport. He suffered complications and had to undergo medical treatments. In addition, there was speculation about his possible retirement, which caused shock in the world of MMA. After various medical evaluations, it was discovered that Chimaev had thyroid problems and underwent surgery in the spring of 2021. Despite maintaining his undefeated record, he has had difficulties staying healthy. These complications have affected his lifestyle, forcing him to avoid contact with people outside his team and to spend time in Abu Dhabi and Chechnya. Chimaev seeks to avoid crowds and possible illnesses to be in optimal condition for his fights.“You can see it in his personality, his fire begins to go out. That’s when you know you need to let him free for a day. Let him do what he wants and he will come back like a monster”
Sweep
Khamzat Chimaev will fight for his first UFC championship
Another important factor has been the difficulty in traveling due to his Chechen citizenship and the sanctions imposed by the United States on Ramzan Kadyrov. The situation was resolved when Chimaev obtained citizenship of the United Arab Emirates and, with the arrival of Donald Trump to the presidency, obtaining his visa was facilitated.
Chimaev has learned to manage his medical condition and has improved aspects such as rest, nutrition, and social habits. For him, the difficulties have strengthened him and have made this fight for the championship even more significant. The Chechen fighter has demonstrated an exceptional work ethic, which dates back to his childhood and his desire to help his family. His jiu-jitsu coach, Alan “Finfou” Nascimento, highlights his motivation to take care of his loved ones. Chimaev has fulfilled that motivation, building houses for his family in Chechnya and planning to open a gym for local youth. His mother can now enjoy her life, and although she often asks him if he is already the UFC champion, Chimaev recognizes that what really matters is family. Chimaev seeks economic success to help his family and the young people on his team. For him, helping others is more important than having luxuries.Khamzat Chimaev submitted Robert Whittaker in the first round at UFC 308
Although there is talk of the possibility of winning three UFC titles, Chimaev is focused on his first championship. He will face Du Plessis, a champion who has proven to be an unpredictable fighter. Despite this, Chimaev is the favorite in the betting. In UFC 319, Chimaev will enter the octagon first, and although Nascimento will try to motivate him, reminding him of his reasons to fight, Chimaev assures that, once in the cage, his heart only wants to fight. This special mentality, along with his talent, suggests that the best of Khamzat Chimaev is yet to come.
