Khamzat Chimaev sets UFC fight deadline amid health concerns

Former UFC middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev has issued a deadline to the promotion, stating he will take a hiatus from competition if he is not booked for a fight by December 2026. Chimaev, who recently lost his title and undefeated record to Sean Strickland at UFC 328, cited the need to address ongoing health issues, including having undergone six surgeries and losing half of his thyroid gland.

Chimaev expressed frustration regarding fight bookings, noting that while he sought a rematch with Strickland or a bout in Abu Dhabi, the UFC has moved forward with other contenders like Nassourdine Imavov. He indicated that if no opportunities arise in October or December, he will step away to focus on medical treatment.

In anticipation of a freestyle wrestling match against Chimaev at RAF 13 in Miami, Gilbert Burns commented on Chimaev’s career trajectory. Burns suggested that Chimaev needs a stable coaching team to reclaim championship status, criticizing his tendency to switch training camps. Burns noted that Chimaev was at his best while training at the Allstars Training Center in Sweden and advised him to surround himself with coaches who provide rigorous challenges rather than constant agreement.