VIDEO: Khamzat Chimaev Does Not Set a Good Example as he Lands in Chechnya

Surging UFC welterweight star Khamzat Chimaev has recently touched down in Chechnya following the definite cancelation of his scheduled bout. ‘Borz’ came in to face off against Leon Edwards on January 20, 2021, however, COVID-19 forced him out of the competition.

Initially, the reasoning for his withdrawal was unclear, but COVID-19 later came in as being the principal culprit. Chiefly, Khamzat Chimaev felt weak when he went back to the gym to train and was advised to take a hiatus.

RT Sport’s recent video grab sees Chimaev speak to a journalist regarding the aforementioned situation and elaborate on his battle with COVID-19. Fans were taken aback slightly when they saw that ‘Borz’ was interacting with a large crowd without any mask. The 9-0 fighter explained that he’s clear of COVID-19, however, he’s currently in the rest and recovery phase.

Leon Edwards and Chimaev were to tango on two separate occasions, the first of which was back on December 19, 2020. Back then it was ‘Rocky’ Edwards who came down with the virus and the bout was pushed forward for January. It’s unclear whether Leon will stay on the card and seek a fight with one of the other welterweights.

Khamzat Chimaev: Unparalleled momentum

The Swedish-Russian fighter has had arguably one of the best years of any fighter, and his star is burning bright. In fact, he’s topped the list of ‘Breakout fighter of the Year’ in many people’s minds. He went from a relatively unknown commodity to the hottest fighter on the roster in a matter of two months.

Chiefly, his burst to stardom came in the form of a three-fight streak that was accrued in just 66 days. This feat smashed the previous record held by Johnny Walker that stood at 105 days. Not to mention, his last fight from the run was a 17-second KO over a veteran in Gerald Meerschaert.

Khamzat will be disappointed to sit on the sidelines, and he will want to build off the momentum he’s garnered. Regardless of the opponent, ‘Borz’ will be keen to make his return to the octagon as soon as humanly possible.