It did not take long for Khamzat Chimaev to mark himself out as a one-of-a-kind commodity in the UFC.
Chimaev is set for his first title shot against Dricus du Plessis, which comes in the main event of the UFC 319 pay-per-view on August 16. The opportunity in Chicago has been a long time coming for ‘Borz’, who once looked to be on a fast track to the top.
Du Plessis and Chimaev’s title clash will take place more than five years after the Chechen star’s Octagon debut. A multitude of health issues, one of which even left Chimaev contemplating retirement, have stalled his championship ambitions in recent years.
But the lengthy wait for a maiden shot at UFC gold has not dampened the confidence many have long had about Chimaev’s potential, and among his biggest supporters early on was the UFC president.
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Dana White was in awe of Khamzat Chimaev after 17-second KO marked third win in three months
Chimaev enjoyed a record-breaking start in the UFC, as he reeled off his opening two wins in the span of just 10 days on ‘Fight Island’ in Abu Dhabi. It did not take long for ‘Borz’ to add another when he headed to the United States just a few months later.
Netting a third win in the space of three months, Chimaev knocked out Gerald Meerschaert in 17 seconds at UFC Vegas 11. Having displayed his knockout power following two one-sided grappling performances, it was clear that ‘Borz’ was the real deal.
That was hammered home by Dana White while speaking to Megan Olivi after fight. White went as far as to say he had “never” seen a fighter like Chimaev in his two decades as UFC president at the time.
“One punch. 17 seconds. This kid is special,” White said.
“He’s different than any fighter I’ve ever seen. I’ve been in the business for a very long time, I’ve seen a lot of greats come and go.
“This kid is absolutely special and I’ve never seen anything like it,” White added.
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Khamzat Chimaev’s first challenger if he beats Dricus du Plessis might already be set
While Du Plessis and Chimaev will have their sole focus on each other for the time being, a recent result may have lined up the next opponent for whoever emerges from UFC 319 as middleweight champion.
Anthony Hernandez caught Du Plessis’ eye with his performance in Saturday’s UFC Vegas 109 main event, as he mauled Roman Dolidze en route to a fourth-round submission at the Apex.
Having won eight fights in a row, ‘Fluffy’ believes he deserves the next opportunity at 185 pounds.
“I want a title shot,” Hernandez said post-fight. “What the f— have I got to do?
“Give me a title shot and I promise I’ll be the next champ.
“I want to prove I can take a title,” he added. “I want to prove I’m the best in the world.”