“Told to fight in Arab countries…” USA visa denial rumor cleared by UFC superstar Khamzat Chimaev – SportsVikings

Khamzat Chimaev has rapidly ascended to become one of the most thrilling prospects in the UFC. Nevertheless, his journey has not been without obstacles. One of the significant challenges for Chimaev remains the visa issues. It has impacted his ability to compete in the United States. Chimaev recently clarified his absence from competing in the United States.

The Russian undefeated fighter last appeared in the octagon at UFC 294 in Abu Dhabi, where he faced Kamaru Usman. Chimaev’s unusual inactivity has sparked rumors that he may be unable to compete in the United States due to visa complications. In an interview with Aslanbek Badaev, the 30-year-old clarified the speculations.

Everyone says that I was denied a visa. So far we have not applied for a visa… I was told to wait and fight in Arab countries for now. And I am waiting…
Khamzat Chimaev via Aslanbek Badaev YouTube channel

According to rumors, his ties to Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov have contributed to the 30-year-old’s visa issues. Chimaev has not participated in the US since his first-round submission victory over Kevin Holland at UFC 279. In the meantime, Borz has risen to prominence as a notable figure in the Middle East. The UFC seems interested in capitalizing on his popularity by scheduling him in the Middle East.

The 30-year-old fighter had to withdraw from his scheduled match against Robert Whittaker due to an illness. Following this, the fighter from Chechnya has not had a fight scheduled. However, he suggested that he might make a comeback for UFC Abu Dhabi later this year. In the interview, Chimaev also made intriguing comments about the upcoming UFC welterweight title bout.

UFC welterweight champion Leon Edwards is all set to face off against Belal Muhammad in a rematch at UFC 304. The fight will take place on July 27th, 2024, in Manchester, England. This upcoming fight will be Edwards’ third opportunity to defend the 170-pound title. Meanwhile, Belal Muhammad is currently enjoying an undefeated streak of 10 fights.

Khamzat Chimaev talks about Leon Edwards vs. Belal Muhammad fight (via Instagram)

Muhammad has defeated some of the very dominating fighters at 170. The Palestinian-American fighter has had four decision wins in his last five fights. Edwards is tied for the fourth-highest decision win in the UFC welterweight division. Knowing how his fellow competitors fight, Khamzat Chimaev remarks the Edwards vs. Muhammad fight as a ‘boring one’ to Aslanbek Badaev.

Of course, it’s a boring fight. Both guys don’t have trash talk and there’re no finishes. The only finish I remember is when Leon (Edwards) knocked out Usman… One is working for points, the other is also working for points. The fans won’t be happy about it.
Khamzat Chimaev via Aslanbek Badaev

Now, coming to Chimaev, he has openly made a statement that he is coming for the title. Given his inactive time duration, many former fighters disagree with the idea of giving the Chechen native a title shot. However, now it remains to be seen what UFC feels about Chimaev’s demand for a title fight.