Khamzat Chimaev‘s rise to popularity was incredible. His monumental initial run in the UFC earned him a reputation all around the world. His unique personality and dominant fighting style made him a fan favorite. However, it came with a price that the fighter paid by compromising his privacy.
Chimaev was based in Sweden for many years but earlier this year he announced that he had moved to the UAE. In a recent interview with Bret Okamoto, Khamzat Chimaev talked about suffering from his popularity in Sweden. According to the fighter, the growing attention from fans in Sweden had become a distraction, making it difficult for him to concentrate.
When I was living in Sweden you know, you can’t hide your address. Everyone can know where you live. So, some crazy people knock your door. It’s hard to focus on training.
Khamzat Chimaev via ESPN MMA
In addition to other factors, Chimaev’s travel restrictions also played a significant role in his decision to relocate. He did not hold a Swedish passport and had never been a Swedish citizen, instead having a Russian passport. With the ongoing war, international travel had become increasingly difficult for Russian passport holders, particularly those of Chechen descent.
⚡️Khamzat Chimaev revealed that after gaining popularity, some overzealous fans located his former residence and began knocking on his door.@espnmma ▫️ pic.twitter.com/PFGnx32dqJ
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) October 23, 2024
According to reports, Chimaev has yet to receive authorization to land on American soil. Chimaev’s ties with warlord Ramzan Kadyrov are the reason why many, including Sean Strickland, recently criticized him. The fighter, however, has never responded to such allegations and has instead concentrated on his next challenge.
Khamzat Chimaev gets warned by his opponent at UFC 308
At UFC 308, Khamzat Chimaev will take on top middleweight contender Robert Whittaker in a five-round clash. The win against the Australian superstar can give the ‘Borz’ a title shot, and he is highly confident about his chances. The fighter recently recovered from depression and is extremely hyped for the upcoming fight.
On the other hand, Whittaker is ready to give Chimaev the toughest fight of his UFC career. The fighter essentially has been through two training camps for the Chechen warrior and is positive about his ability to fight for five rounds.
I’m expecting him to come out hard and aggressive from the first second to the last. I have prepared accordingly for that… I’m ready to sprint for 25 minutes if so, and I’ve come here for war…I’m the hunter in this fight, I’m the predator, I’m gonna be looking for him.
Robert Whittaker via UFC 308 pre-fight presser
Chimaev is known for his relentless pressure and intentions to finish his opponents as soon as possible. It would be interesting to see whether the fight goes to the final round. Nevertheless, fans are excited for the clash. Apart from this fight, the whole fight card is stacked from top to bottom.
