Khamzat Chimaev is finally returning to the octagon at UFC 308, facing Robert Whittaker after a challenging year-long hiatus. His absence was due to a severe illness, which sidelined the rising middleweight and tested his resilience. Despite numerous obstacles in his career, Chimaev seems to have overcome them and is ready for his next challenge.
The fighter from Chechen was supposed to face Whittaker at UFC Abu Dhabi earlier this year. Everything was going well until just a week before the fight, Chimaev became ‘violently ill’. This forced the Chechen fighter to pull out his name and miss his opportunity to get close to the UFC title. In a recent interview, the fighter discussed living in a fulfilling state of mind after overcoming depression.
Well, you can say that my depression is gone. I had a lot of problems before, I dealt with them. Thanks to God. I am just a human. I also have my own problems…I got caught in depression. A lot happned. Thank God, its gone now.
Khamzat Chimaev via Instagram
Back in June, Khamzat Chimaev’s condition was so severe that he was hospitalized, leaving fans concerned for his health. The Chechen fighter once considered retirement after battling COVID-19, which took a serious toll on his health. Though his UFC debut sparked high expectations for a rapid ascent, frequent illnesses have repeatedly disrupted his momentum.
🥺 Khamzat Chimaev: “My depression is gone.”
🎥 adam.zuba pic.twitter.com/c1akVZR5G6— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) October 22, 2024
Over the years, many UFC experts and fans have questioned Khamzat Chimaev’s overtraining himself. That’s exactly what ruined the fighter immunity system, making him ill in the first place. However, the ‘Borz’ has significantly changed his team and training program. His camp believes these changes can help him remain injury-free.
BJJ coach gives an update about Khamzat Chimaev ahead of UFC 308
Khamzat Chimaev’s UFC career is filled with victories that are dominant over top fighters. His last win was against former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman, which brought him closer to the title contention. For the Robert Whittaker fight, the undefeated fighter has left no stone unturned, training with the likes of Arman Tsarukyan.
On the other hand, Whittaker has had two consecutive training camps for Chimaev and has trained his wrestling to match his opponent’s relentless pressure. Nevertheless, Chimaev’s training camp finished without any problems, and his team was confident about his chances.
The camp is done. Now, just keep the body going. Keep his mind sharp…We are really excited for the fight. We also big fan of Robert Whittaker but now as Khamzat said before, it’s his time now.
Allan Finfou via UFC 308 Embedded
Allan Finfou has been working with Chimaev for a long time and has previously talked about exposing fake black belt holders. The top middleweight believes he’s the best wrestler on the UFC roster with a great knack for striking. Going into UFC 308, the co-main event is equally promising as the headliner.
