Khamzat Chimaev UFC career impact is evident as the rising UFC middleweight contender prepares for a pivotal fight on August 6, 2025, in Chicago’s United Center. Chimaev, originally from Chechnya and now representing the UAE, is set to face reigning champion Dricus Du Plessis in a clash that carries significant personal meaning beyond the championship stakes.
This matchup represents a defining moment for both fighters: Du Plessis strives to affirm his title reign, while Chimaev, known as “Borz,” pursues his long-held promise to his mother that he would retire once crowned UFC champion. His journey has also brought profound changes to his family’s life, especially that of his mother, whose perspective on his fighting career has evolved considerably over time.
The Transformative Effect of Chimaev’s Rise on His Family
Khamzat Chimaev credits his mother’s strength and determination with shaping much of his journey, including their family’s escape from Chechnya in search of a safer, more stable future. They eventually settled in Sweden, where Khamzat and his brother Artur found a new home. While Khamzat’s success inside the Octagon has made headlines worldwide, his family has largely remained out of the spotlight, with Artur occasionally seen offering support during fights.
Throughout his career, Chimaev’s mother has worried about the physical toll of MMA on her son, expressing concern over the damage the sport inflicts. She consistently asked whether he had become a UFC champion yet, reflecting both love and apprehension about his well-being. Today, however, she leads a serene life, moving between places such as Moscow, Sweden, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi, owning multiple residences that reflect the improved circumstances generated by her son’s success.
Before, they were scared. Not now. She’s good…Sometimes lives with Marish, sometimes goes to Sweden, sometimes to the mountains. She has a house, different apartments—Moscow, around… in Dubai, Abu Dhabi. She has a good life.
— Khamzat Chimaev, UFC Fighter
What Motivates Khamzat Chimaev to Keep Fighting at the Highest Level?
Despite an earlier assertion from former training partner Caio Borralho that Chimaev intended to retire after capturing a UFC belt, recent developments suggest Chimaev’s ambitions have expanded. No longer fixated on stepping away immediately after a title win, he is targeting dominance across multiple weight classes—middleweight, welterweight, and light heavyweight. This new pursuit reflects deeper motivations tied to his family’s financial security, particularly concerning his young son, who recently underwent surgery and faces further medical procedures ahead.
Chimaev keeps his inner circle tight, primarily focused on the welfare of his mother and son. His renewed commitment to continuing his fighting career stems not only from personal ambition but also the practical need to provide for his loved ones. In an interview with ESPN, Chimaev directly addressed Borralho’s retirement prediction, clarifying that financial concerns remain a driving force in his decision to keep competing.
I don’t know where he heard that thing. I need money, bro. It’s not enough if I just go for one title. Hopefully, if I get some more stuff, then maybe I’ll fight to defend the belt or fight for another belt in Abu Dhabi as well… I don’t know where this came from—him.
— Khamzat Chimaev, UFC Fighter
Looking Ahead: Upcoming Challenges and Future Opportunities
Chimaev’s immediate focus is on his upcoming showdown with Dricus Du Plessis, but he has hinted at even larger goals within the UFC landscape. Potential future bouts could include matchups with the winner of the Alex Pereira versus Magomed Ankalaev fight, suggesting that Chimaev envisions himself as a multi-division force capable of unifying titles and expanding his legacy.
This ambitious vision contrasts sharply with his initial retirement promise but reflects the transformation in both his career outlook and family circumstances. With his mother now supportive and settled, and his son’s medical needs pressing, Chimaev’s unwavering dedication to the sport seems driven by both personal and practical factors.
His pursuit of multiple belts could elevate him to one of the most versatile and dominant fighters in UFC history. As Chimaev prepares to headline the landmark event at Chicago’s United Center, fans and analysts alike are watching to see if he can overcome the toughest test in Dricus Du Plessis and take one step closer to fulfilling his complex promise—to be a champion who fights not only for glory but for the future of those he loves.