UFC middleweight contender Khamzat Chimaev faces Dricus Du Plessis for the middleweight title in the main event of UFC 319, scheduled for August 16 in Chicago. Caio Borralho, another top middleweight fighter, has indicated that Chimaev may consider retiring if he wins the championship, suggesting whispers about his future plans amid intense pressure.
Chimaev currently enters the fight favored by odds of -188 to claim the belt. According to Borralho, some sources suggest that a victorious Chimaev could step away from the sport entirely, citing health concerns and national expectations as possible reasons.
I heard somewhere, some people saying that if he wins the belt, he’s gonna retire. I think so. There’s some little talks, some whispers about that,
Borralho shared with MMAToday.
If he wins the belt, he retires. I’m not sure of that. I don’t know if I believe that or not, but it’s an option. There’s too much pressure on him. Health problems and a lot of pressure from his country. Maybe he retires, maybe not. He has a lot of money already. A lot of money — he’s good with money. He’ll already be champion, so why not retire? I would do the same.
Health Issues and Financial Security May Influence Chimaev’s Future
The possibility of Chimaev retiring shortly after winning the title would be unexpected, given his impressive rise in the UFC. Nevertheless, his history of health struggles, combined with the financial stability he has attained, could reduce his motivation to continue competing after reaching the sport’s pinnacle.
Yet, this outcome depends entirely on Chimaev’s ability to overcome Du Plessis, a formidable opponent in the octagon. The challenge to claim the championship remains daunting, and only a win can set the stage for this potential retirement discussion to gain weight.
Caio Borralho Targets Title Shot With Upcoming UFC Paris Main Event
Meanwhile, Caio Borralho is preparing for a crucial middleweight bout against Nassourdine Imavov at UFC Paris on September 6. This fight is expected to determine the next contender to face the winner of the Chimaev-Du Plessis title clash.
Borralho enters the match confident, despite competing in Imavov’s home turf, believing his pressure style and power will overwhelm his opponent.
I’m going to pressure this guy, he’s going to get tired, and I’m going to knock him out,
Borralho said on Submission Radio.
That’s what I’m going to do. He’s going to be too emotional in this fight, and I’m going to knock him out with his own emotions.
Currently ranked sixth in the middleweight division, Borralho holds a professional record of 17 wins, 1 loss, and 1 no contest as he pursues his chance at the championship spotlight.
Implications for the Middleweight Division
If Chimaev chooses to retire after UFC 319, it would abruptly shift the landscape of the middleweight division, potentially opening opportunities for fighters like Borralho. The path to the title could change rapidly, depending on whether Chimaev decides to continue fighting or step away from competition.
For now, the focus remains on the upcoming fight between Chimaev and Du Plessis, an event that could determine whether the whispers of retirement hold any truth and what the next chapter will be for one of UFC’s most talked-about athletes.