Khamzat Chimaev’s path to a UFC title shot—once seemingly guaranteed after his dominant 2024 submission of Robert Whittaker—has hit a snag. The undefeated Chechen phenom, who vowed to claim middleweight gold in 2025, now faces uncertainty as champion Dricus Du Plessis recovers from a reported injury, delaying their anticipated UFC 317 clash. Here’s the latest on Chimaev’s return timeline, the UFC’s contingency plans, and the rising stars angling to disrupt his championship ambitions.
The UFC 317 Setback
Chimaev (13-0) appeared poised to challenge Du Plessis at UFC 317 during International Fight Week in June, a matchup teased by UFC CEO Dana White and all but confirmed by Chimaev’s cryptic April social media post hinting at “good news.” However, MMA Junkie reported on April 20 that Du Plessis’ injury has stalled negotiations, leaving Chimaev in limbo.
“These things happen—injuries, visa issues, timing,” said a UFC official familiar with the discussions. “The fight isn’t dead, but the timeline’s fluid.” Chimaev’s visa status, previously a hurdle for U.S.-based events, was resolved in early 2025, per White, clearing one obstacle.
Chimaev’s Recent Dominance
Chimaev’s first-round submission of Whittaker at UFC 308 (3:34 via rear-naked choke) silenced critics who questioned his inactivity. The win marked his eighth consecutive UFC victory, six by stoppage, and showcased his blend of wrestling pressure and improved striking. “He made a former champion look amateur,” analyst Teddy Atlas noted.
Despite fighting just twice since 2023, Chimaev’s aura remains intact. His 64% career takedown accuracy and 6.24 strikes landed per minute (per UFC Stats) make him a stylistic nightmare for most middleweights.
Potential Opponents
With Du Plessis sidelined, three paths emerge for Chimaev:
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Israel Adesanya: The former champion, eyeing a late-2025 return, represents a marquee matchup. Adesanya’s striking acumen (4.69 significant strikes landed per minute) contrasts sharply with Chimaev’s grappling, creating a fan-friendly style clash. “That’s the fight to make if Dricus can’t go,” said a prominent MMA manager.
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Caio Borralho: The rising Brazilian (16-1) has won six straight UFC fights, including a March 2025 TKO over Jared Cannonier. Borralho’s jiu-jitsu pedigree (eight submissions) could test Chimaev’s ground game.
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Sean Strickland: The ex-champion, who lost twice to Du Plessis, remains a top-5 staple. Strickland’s cardio and volume striking (6.12 strikes landed per minute) offer a unique challenge.
The Visa Factor
Chimaev’s ability to compete in the U.S. has been sporadic due to past visa issues, complicating event planning. His 2023 fight against Holland occurred in Las Vegas, but subsequent bouts were booked in Abu Dhabi to avoid red tape. White’s April assurance that “Khamzat can fight anywhere now” suggests flexibility, though international cards remain an option.
What’s Next?
Industry insiders speculate the UFC could pivot to Chimaev vs. Adesanya for a late-summer interim title if Du Plessis’ recovery extends beyond August. Alternatively, Borralho or Strickland could serve as a title eliminator.
“Khamzat’s not waiting around,” said Darren Till, Chimaev’s teammate. “He’ll smash whoever they put in front of him.” Chimaev’s Instagram activity—posts of grueling wrestling sessions and the caption “Coming for everyone”—hints at impatience.
The Bigger Picture
Chimaev’s career arc mirrors Conor McGregor’s early days: a meteoric rise, polarizing persona, and relentless self-promotion. But with just two fights in two years, maintaining relevance requires activity. “He’s got to fight three times in 2025 to justify the hype,” argued MMA journalist Ariel Helwani.
For now, fans await official word from the UFC. As one matchmaker quipped: “Khamzat’s like a hurricane—you know he’s coming, you just don’t know when.”
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