Khamzat Chimaev has revealed new gym facilities he is developing in his hometown in Chechnya, Russia, aiming to motivate local youth to grow stronger and focus on self-discipline. This initiative highlights his commitment to giving back to his community as he prepares for his upcoming UFC middleweight title fight.
Chimaev, known as ‘Borz,’ is scheduled to compete against Dricus du Plessis for the middleweight championship at UFC 319 on August 16. In a UFC 319 Countdown interview, he discussed improvements in his village, including the new gym designed specifically for the younger generation.
Khamzat Chimaev’s Vision for Supporting Local Youth Through Sports
Chimaev described his motivation behind constructing the gym in his village, emphasizing it as a space for young people to develop their wrestling skills and build character. He stated,
“All Chechnya villages are the same. People helping each other to become a good people. But now [it’s] my time to give back, that’s why I’m building a gym. This gym I’m building in my village is for the young people and boys become a good wrestler here… It’s not gym for me, I’m building for the kids.”
—Khamzat Chimaev
He further explained the importance of the gym in keeping children off the streets while fostering both physical and mental strength. Chimaev noted,
“Everyone knows me. I know everyone here. If I go out, they don’t see me like Khamzat Chimaev superstar; they see me like their brother. They love me. I love them as well. Kids [have] to be safe, so [have] to be not on the streets, better [have] to be in the gym. Gym makes you a stronger guy, mentally, physically.”
—Khamzat Chimaev
Looking Beyond: Chimaev’s Ambition for UFC Supremacy
Fresh from a decisive win over Robert Whittaker at UFC 308, Chimaev views his fight with Dricus du Plessis as his first chance to claim UFC gold. A win here could propel him toward becoming a triple champion in different weight divisions.
In an ESPN MMA interview, Chimaev shared his plans for future title bouts, including challenging fighters like Jack Della Maddalena, Magomed Ankalaev, or Alex Pereira. He revealed,
“[Jack Della Maddalena] would be a good fight for me, and we will go down [the weight class] and fight him as well. [We] could win the belt there. And if I go up [to light heavyweight], there is [Magomed] Ankalaev and Alex Pereira. They’re fighting now, and whoever wins, I can fight for that belt as well.”
—Khamzat Chimaev
These remarks underscore Chimaev’s determination to dominate across multiple divisions and his readiness to challenge top contenders across weight classes.
Significance of the Village Gym for Community and Future Champions
Chimaev’s investment in his village gym represents more than just physical training; it is a symbol of hope and opportunity for Chechnya’s youth. By providing a safe place to train and develop, he aims to build stronger individuals who can aspire to athletic success and personal growth. As he pursues glory inside the Octagon, his efforts outside it demonstrate a dedication to uplifting his community and inspiring future generations of fighters.