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Khamzat Chimaev considers a break due to injuries

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 13, 2026, 8:00 PM

Last updated Sep 13, 2026

Khamzat Chimaev considers a break due to injuries

Summary

Khamzat Chimaev is looking to return to the Octagon before the end of 2026 following an upset loss to Sean Strickland. Initially, he aimed to transition to Light Heavyweight but has since refocused on regaining the Middleweight title. Chimaev is eager for an immediate rematch, though the UFC is slated to move forward with Nassourdine Imavov’s title shot. He has called out the Middleweight Top Five but admitted he might take a break for surgery if he does not secure a fight soon. Chimaev cited ongoing health challenges, including a history of surgeries, and expressed concerns about his current injuries.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Chimaev aims to fight again this year despite recent setbacks.
•UFC appears to prioritize Imavov's title shot over Chimaev's rematch.
•Ongoing injuries may lead Chimaev to undergo surgery if inactive.
•Chimaev has faced criticism for his inactivity in the Octagon.
•His health struggles include multiple surgeries and complications from COVID-19.

Latest Updates

8:00 PMYahoo Sports — Time For A Break? Khamzat Admits ‘A Lot Of Injuries’

What they're saying

"
Khamzat Chimaev is motivated to fight before the end of 2026. The former champion wants to rebound from his upset loss to Sean Strickland sooner than later. At first, he teased a move to Light Heavyweight but quickly fixed his sights back on Middleweight gold. Though “Borz” wants an immediate rematch, it appears that the […]
— Yahoo Sports

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