UFC president Dana White began contemplating a new fight date for Khamzat Chimaev immediately following the Russian middleweight’s dominant performance over Dricus Du Plessis on Saturday night. Despite his usual practice of waiting until his weekly matchmaking meetings to schedule bouts, White’s comments after UFC 319 suggested a readiness to fast-track Chimaev’s next appearance, possibly as soon as late October in Abu Dhabi.
Chimaev, who remains undefeated, secured middleweight gold in a bout widely praised for his control and resilience. Ahead of the fight, the fighter expressed eagerness to compete again quickly. The potential UFC 321 event on October 26 in Abu Dhabi would mark his return just weeks after claiming the title, fitting Chimaev’s status as an adopted Emirati representing the UAE flag in competition.
Dana White Open to Scheduling Chimaev’s Return at UFC 321 in Abu Dhabi
While Khamzat Chimaev has typically fought only once per year recently, his early UFC career built a reputation for frequent bouts. Dana White appears interested in challenging that narrative by booking Chimaev for UFC 321, which is set to take place in Abu Dhabi. The location also aligns with Chimaev’s close ties to the UAE.
At a post-fight press conference, White conveyed his openness to a rapid turnaround:
I just had a kid fight Tuesday and wanted to turn around and fight here. Abu Dhabi? I would definitely consider.
—Dana White, UFC President
Chimaev himself expressed readiness to compete again but awaited official confirmation:
We will see what they say, I am ready always, no injuries thanks God.
—Khamzat Chimaev, UFC Middleweight Champion
Chimaev’s Desire to Defend Title in Abu Dhabi Was Clear Before UFC 319
Prior to his recent championship fight, Chimaev openly communicated his hope to make a swift return to Abu Dhabi, where he has built a home and fights under its flag. His commitment to representing the UAE is reflected in his desire to defend the title or face a new opponent soon after UFC 319.
During an open workout ahead of UFC 319, he stated:
I hope there is no injury and nothing happens in the fight, so I can fight in Abu Dhabi,
emphasizing his plans for the near future.
Chimaev also addressed his recent inactivity, explaining it was beyond his control due to visa issues:
[My inactivity] wasn’t my bad or my fault. Everyone knows I didn’t have a visa to the United States, that’s why I didn’t fight. That’s why I only fought one in Abu Dhabi. Now, Donald Trump here, so we go for fights.
This comment highlights the logistical challenges that affected his fight schedule in recent years.
UFC 321 Set to Feature Top Fighters with Potential Highlight from Chimaev’s Title Defense
The upcoming UFC 321 event will be headlined by heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall’s first title defense against Ciryl Gane. Adding Khamzat Chimaev as a co-headliner would bring a regional fan favorite to the card, enhancing the event’s appeal in Abu Dhabi. With the UFC expanding its global presence, the possibility of Chimaev’s quick return reflects its commitment to delivering exciting fights to new markets.
The rapid scheduling of Chimaev’s next bout also illustrates Dana White’s readiness to capitalize on momentum, particularly following Chimaev’s impressive Dricus Du Plessis UFC fight that showcased his status as a rising star in the sport.