Khamzat Chimaev considers hiatus if no fight booked for late 2026

Khamzat Chimaev stated he will take a break from competition if he is not booked for a UFC fight before the end of 2026. The 32-year-old middleweight athlete is looking to return to the cage between October and December following his first professional loss to Sean Strickland at UFC 328 in May. Chimaev cited ongoing health concerns and a history of injuries that have required six surgeries as primary factors for his potential time away. He previously campaigned for a rematch with Strickland but has also considered a potential matchup with Caio Borralho. Currently, Chimaev has fought once in 2026 and made one appearance in 2025. He remains available for the UFC to schedule an opponent for the remainder of the year.

• 7:30 PMYahoo Sports — Khamzat Chimaev wants 2026 return to UFC or he's taking 'a little break'