Khamzat Chimaev has recently come out and spoken about his recent health issues. In an interview with RT Sport MMA, he revealed that there were serious fears regarding his health situation.
He spoke about how he suffered from lingering effects of COVID 19, and at one point even contemplated retiring. For his recovery and return to full fitness, Chimaev started light training in Las Vegas.
After some initial progress, he was advised to start cardio again. This is where the problems started emerging. Chimaev started coughing up blood.
This caused tremendous doubt and fear in Khamzat’s mind. “Honestly, it scared me. Cancer? Like, ‘I have been sick so long, why doesn’t it go away?” Shortly after, he flew to Grozny, Russia to be closer to his near and dear ones.
Since then, Khamzat has revealed that he’s doing much better and could soon be making a return. “When I am fit and injury-free, I can fight once a week.” As things stand, Chimaev will be looking to return to action in July.
What next for Khamzat Chimaev?
Rumors have suggested that Khamzat could be back inside the Octagon in July. When asked about a possible showdown with Neil Magny, Chimaev expressed great interest. ” If he is ready, and if I am ready- why not?”
It has been revealed that Dana White was also involved in convincing Khamzat to return. However, Khamzat had already intended to come back. “ I just told them that I was back and they were glad to hear it.”
Khamzat Chimaev of Chechnya punches Gerald Meerschaert in their middleweight bout during the UFC Fight Night event at UFC APEX in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Credit: Getty Images)
Chimaev (9-0 MMA, 3-0 UFC) burst onto the UFC scene last July. Since then, he notched up three stoppage wins in the span of two months, most recently knocking Gerald Meerschaert out in just 17 seconds in September.
“I have a contract, so all is good. I will come back soon and fight,” he adds as he reassures his supporters. With so much enthusiasm and potential to offer, fans will certainly be looking forward to the Chechen-born fighter’s return.
