Since Khamzat Chimaev introduced himself to the UFC in 2020, the Chechen has brought tremendous hype to the Octagon. However, with only four fights thus far in the promotion, and UFC gold on the horizon, we may not be seeing Chimaev stick around for long.
The 27-year-old stated in a recent interview with Smesh Bros that he doesn’t intend on hanging around for long after accomplishing his mission of becoming a UFC champion. In a similar fashion to Russian superstar Khabib Nurmagomedov.
Chimaev told the viewers that he promised his mother during his battle with COVID-19 that he would retire once becoming a ‘legit champion’ and leaving a memorable legacy behind.
Khamzat Chimaev on Promise to Mother
“My mother thinks I become a champion after each fight I win,” Chimaev said (h/t Sports Manor). I did promise I will retire when I become a legit champion. So my goal is to be no. 1 and then I will retire.”
Chimaev has yet to taste defeat in his career, sitting at (10-0) in MMA and has a satisfying 100% finish rate alongside the undefeated record. The All-Stars affiliate will return to the Octagon this Saturday at UFC 273 when he squares off against former title challenger Gilbert Burns.
This Saturday’s pay-per-view has fans gasping with excitement due to the talent on display from start to finish. The main event features a featherweight title bout between Alexander Volkanovski and Chan Sung Jung. In addition, the co-main event features the highly anticipated rematch between Aljamian Sterling and Petr Yan. VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena will host Saturday night’s action.
