As Khamzat Chimaev prepares for his upcoming fight at UFC 319 in Chicago on August 16, 2025, he has taken a moment to remember and pay tribute to the late wrestling legend Buvaisar Saitiev. Chimaev’s heartfelt homage highlights the immense influence Saitiev had on his career and personal life. The focus on Khamzat Chimaev tribute to Saitiev underscores the deep respect between athlete and mentor in the world of combat sports.

Chimaev, a rising star in mixed martial arts, spoke candidly about his admiration for Saitiev during an interview with Adam Zuba. Reflecting on the late wrestler’s impact, he said,

“He was a real role model for young people in the Caucasus. He was a very intelligent, fair, and respectable man. People of that kind aren’t born too often.”

—Khamzat Chimaev, UFC fighter

From Wrestling Idol to Trainer: Chimaev’s Journey with Saitiev

The bond between Khamzat Chimaev and Buvaisar Saitiev was both professional and deeply personal. Chimaev admired Saitiev long before he had the chance to train under him. Saitiev, a three-time Olympic gold medalist and six-time world champion in freestyle wrestling, was a legendary figure in Russian and global wrestling circles.

Chimaev first trained with Saitiev ahead of his fight against Robert Whittaker at UFC 308 in October 2024. That opportunity was a dream come true for Chimaev, who said,

“He’s a three-time gold medalist. I [have] known him since I [was a] kid.”

—Khamzat Chimaev, UFC fighter

The experience left a lasting impression on the fighter, who recalled in a deeply emotional tone,

“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, like a person.”

—Khamzat Chimaev, UFC fighter

Chimaev also emphasized the uniqueness of Saitiev’s character and achievements:

“He was [an] amazing guy, like [a] sportsman, he was [the] greatest. So not so many people could be like him.”

—Khamzat Chimaev, UFC fighter

Remembering Saitiev’s Sudden Passing and Its Impact on Chimaev

The wrestling world and Chimaev personally were shaken by the sudden loss of Buvaisar Saitiev, who died of cardiac arrest on March 2, 2025, at the age of 49. The news deeply affected the combat sports community and left a void for those who admired him.

Chimaev expressed his sorrow publicly, sharing heartfelt condolences alongside many other fighters who mourned Saitiev’s passing. The emotional weight of losing such an influential figure was evident during Chimaev’s reflection moments before UFC 319, especially when he noticed a portrait of Saitiev at the Olympic base in Kislovodsk, Russia.

During filming of the UFC 319 Countdown show, Chimaev remarked with visible emotion,

“I didn’t see the picture.”

—Khamzat Chimaev, UFC fighter

This display showed the lasting bond and respect Chimaev holds for his fallen mentor, a feeling shared by many across the sport.

Support from Fellow Fighters: Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev Mourn Saitiev

Chimaev was not alone in his grief. Khabib Nurmagomedov, former UFC lightweight champion, joined him in mourning Buvaisar Saitiev’s death. Chimaev posted on Instagram,

“May God forgive you, may God be a hero like you for our nation.”

—Khamzat Chimaev, UFC fighter

Nurmagomedov also shared a tribute along with a photo of himself and Saitiev, writing,

“May Allah forgive you, Brother. You inspired millions of children around the world; you will be missed. I express my sincere condolences to the family and friends, patience to you.”

—Khabib Nurmagomedov, UFC fighter

Islam Makhachev, a top UFC contender and close associate of Nurmagomedov, added his respects, saying,

“An era has passed. A legend has passed. My condolences to all your family and friends, we will miss you.”

—Islam Makhachev, UFC fighter

Saitiev’s Legacy Lives On in Wrestling and MMA Communities

Even after several months since Buvaisar Saitiev’s passing, his legacy continues to inspire athletes and fans alike. His remarkable career as an Olympic champion and world wrestling icon shaped generations, including Khamzat Chimaev, who carries forward Saitiev’s values and teachings in mixed martial arts.

The heartfelt tributes from Chimaev and other prominent fighters highlight how Saitiev’s influence transcended wrestling and made a lasting impact across combat sports disciplines. As Chimaev prepares for his fight against Dricus Du Plessis, the memory of his mentor remains a powerful source of motivation and strength.

Chimaev’s tribute represents not only a personal gesture of gratitude but also a reminder of the enduring ties between wrestling and MMA in Russia’s North Caucasus region. The loss of Saitiev is a significant moment for the sports community, reinforcing the importance of honoring those who pave the way for future champions.