Khamzat Chimaev Targets December Return, May Take Time Off for Surgeries

Khamzat Chimaev is looking to step back into the Octagon before the end of the year, but he is prepared to take a hiatus if a matchup does not materialize soon. In May, Chimaev suffered the first defeat of his professional MMA career, dropping a split decision to Sean Strickland in their title fight at UFC 328.

While Chimaev initially campaigned for an immediate rematch against Strickland, he has since changed his stance. Speaking to Adam Zubayrev, as reported by MMA Fighting, Chimaev explained that the UFC has yet to call him with a booking, and he made it clear he is not waiting strictly for a title fight because he does not want to sit out for a prolonged period while Strickland recovers. Chimaev noted that after expressing this, Nassourdine Imavov was positioned for a matchup instead.

Chimaev stated that he previously targeted an October appearance and is now pushing for a return in December. However, if that timeline falls through, he plans to finally address his long-standing health issues.

"If nothing happens in December, I think I'll take a little break," Chimaev said. "I've been putting off my surgeries, putting them off, putting them off, and I go into every fight with some kind of problem." Chimaev revealed that he has undergone six surgeries, been placed under anesthesia seven times, and continues to manage multiple injuries.