Khamzat Chimaev’s return to the Octagon remains pending, but ‘Borz’ expressed interest in fighting in Saudi Arabia.
Chimaev last stepped into the cage in October at UFC 294, when he took on former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman. The Chechen was able to edge out Usman on the scorecards, beating him by majority decision over three rounds.
Fans now wait patiently for his comeback, which will likely be for the middleweight title. It was recently revealed by Dana White that he was offered his shot at UFC 300 against reigning champion Leon Edwards.
Speaking to FCR MMA, Chimaev revealed that both ramadan and an inability to make weight on short notice forced him to turn down the bout.
“They wanted me to fight at (UFC) 300, but I said it’s too short time for (170 pounds).I need a bit of time. (The Edwards fight) wasn’t 100 percent sure, but my manager said maybe, maybe not. My brother said to me, ‘Not in Ramadan.’ After Ramadan, we’ll take some time, camp and then we’ll fight anyone,” said Chimaev.
The month of Ramadan sees Muslims around the world fast from sunrise to sunset, meaning they are not allowed to consume food or water for the majority of the day.
Chimaev Sets Sights on Saudi Arabia
As a result of this, Chimaev has now turned his attention to the upcoming UFC card in Saudi Arabia, currently scheduled for June. At this moment in time, the card has no main event in place.
Summer would be an optimal return date for the Chechen, although he has concerns when it comes to finding an opponent.
Chimaev said: “In the summer, I think – in the summer, we’ll be back. I want to fight in Saudi Arabia, but I don’t think anybody wants to fight me there. We’ll see what’s going to happen, so (I’m) just waiting for something.”
Would you like to see Chimaev return against Leon Edwards in Saudi Arabia? Let us know what you think in the comments.
