As Khamzat Chimaev prepares for the major fight of his MMA career at UFC 319, he is also making a meaningful contribution to his hometown by constructing a wrestling gym for local children. This initiative reflects his commitment to nurturing the next generation of athletes in his village, using his resources to create a space dedicated to young wrestlers.
In a UFC 319 Countdown video released this week, Chimaev provided a detailed look at the large area of land where he is developing a residential compound for himself, his mother, and his brother. Alongside these homes, he is building a wrestling gym intended specifically for kids to train and grow in the sport.
Creating a Space for Youth Wrestling Without MMA Elements
Chimaev made it clear that the new gym is not designed for his own training or to feature a traditional MMA cage. Instead, the facility is meant as a supportive environment where young boys can learn wrestling skills and develop their talents over time. His vision focuses on long-term growth, allowing the youth to decide their future paths in years to come.
He explained,
“This is a gym I’m building in my village for the young people, boys, to become good wrestlers here. I don’t want to put a cage because of the kids. First [they] has to become wrestlers, then after 50 years, after 20 years, I don’t know, they’re going to choose what they want to do.”
It’s not a gym for me, I’m building for the kids.
—Khamzat Chimaev
Honoring Wrestling Legend Buvaisar Saitiev’s Influence
As the buildup to UFC 319 continues, a victory for Chimaev could place him among Chechen wrestling legends, including Buvaisar Saitiev. Saitiev, a three-time Olympic gold medalist and six-time World Champion, was a respected figure in both wrestling and the Chechen Wrestling Federation, where he served as president until his passing.
Chimaev recalled his admiration and personal connection with Saitiev during the countdown footage, revealing that training with the legend was a childhood dream that eventually came true. He emphasized Saitiev’s impact on him both as a mentor and as an athlete.
I know him since I were kid. Buvaisar Saitiev is one of the legends in wrestling. It was my dream to train with him and he showed me a lot of things. [As] like a person, he was amazing guy. [As] sportsman, he was [the] greatest.
—Khamzat Chimaev
The countdown video includes archival footage of Chimaev training under Saitiev, adding a personal layer to this legacy connection.
Chimaev’s Confident Stance Ahead of UFC 319 Bout with Dricus du Plessis
With one week remaining until UFC 319, Chimaev is the clear favorite in the betting markets against Dricus du Plessis. At the time of publishing, Chimaev holds odds of -215 on FanDuel, while du Plessis is positioned as a +164 underdog. Chimaev’s confidence extends beyond the numbers, as he openly doubted his opponent’s ability to match his skill set.
In candid remarks from the countdown video, Chimaev criticized the mindset of preparing cautiously for the fight, asserting that total domination is necessary to secure victory. He made pointed remarks about reigning champion Robert Whittaker as well, underscoring his readiness and lethal approach.
Everyone say like, ‘Oh this is for title fight, how this feels like?’ It feels the same. Doesn’t matter. Dricus, he’s strong guy. A lot of good skills, but not on my level. Striking, Wrestling, I don’t see anywhere he can be better than me.
—Khamzat Chimaev
Robert [Whittaker] he didn’t get me in one punch. They say like ‘I’m preparing for the war.’ Why I should prepare for the war? If you want to win, you has to prepare for a kill. To destroy the guy. I’m ready for him.
—Khamzat Chimaev
Implications for Chimaev’s Career and Wrestling Legacy
Khamzat Chimaev’s efforts to build a wrestling gym for local children signal his dedication to developing future talent in his community, reflecting his deep roots and respect for Chechen wrestling heritage. As he prepares to compete at UFC 319, his connection to iconic figures like Buvaisar Saitiev and his confidence heading into the fight point to a growing legacy within the world of MMA and wrestling.
The coming weeks will show if Chimaev’s promise both inside the Octagon and in his village can translate into lasting impact, inspiring young wrestlers while advancing his own career at the highest levels.