Return to the Octagon

Unbeaten UFC sensation Khamzat Chimaev is set to make a highly anticipated comeback at UFC 308 in Abu Dhabi. Initially scheduled for UFC Saudi Arabia in June, Chimaev had to withdraw due to health issues. Despite the collapse of the planned bout against former champion Robert Whittaker, Chimaev now eyes a title match. In a recent interview, he expressed his ambitions for Abu Dhabi.

“I will probably fight at UFC 308 in October in Abu Dhabi,” Chimaev told MatchTV. “The opponent is not confirmed yet, but I would like to fight for the title. I have seven fights, seven wins (in UFC). No fighter in UFC history has won seven fights without getting a title shot. Dana White says different things all the time, but we are negotiating (for a title match).”

Challenges to Title Shot

Chimaev’s aspiration for a title shot faces hurdles. He has yet to defeat any ranked middleweights in UFC, with his notable victories coming in the welterweight division, including a thrilling clash against top-ranked Gilbert Burns in April 2022. Injuries, weight cut issues, health problems, and a travel ban to the USA have impeded his progress in the world’s leading MMA organization.

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Khamzat Chimaev @KChimaev – pushes for a title shot at the October UFC event in Abu Dhabi… says negotiating with Dana White is not easy at times…

Do you believe we will see Khamzat inside the octagon soon? pic.twitter.com/U6I5MrPkBk

— Red Corner MMA (@RedCorner_MMA) July 16, 2024

Middleweight Title Picture

Another obstacle is that middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis is set to defend his title against former champ Israel Adesanya at UFC 305 on August 18. The winner will likely need more time to prepare for the next match, making the two-month gap to UFC 308 tight.

Potential Opponents

Despite these challenges, there’s a strong chance we’ll see Chimaev compete at UFC 308 if his health permits, especially since he now resides and trains in the United Arab Emirates. Potential opponents include Paulo Costa, Whittaker, and Sean Strickland.

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