Khamzat “Borz” Chimaev is one of the most dominant and talked-about fighters of this generation. Known for his suffocating wrestling, violent finishing ability, and fearless attitude, Chimaev has risen from a war-torn childhood in Chechnya to becoming the UFC Middleweight Champion. Below is an in-depth look at his life story, career stats, financial profile, training style, upcoming fights, FAQs, and a tactical breakdown of his strengths and weaknesses.
Quick Stats: Khamzat Chimaev
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | 31 (Born May 1, 1994) |
| Nationality | Emirati 🇦🇪 (Originally Russian 🇷🇺) |
| Represents | United Arab Emirates |
| Languages | Chechen, Russian, Swedish, English |
| Religion | Muslim |
| Nickname | Borz (The Wolf) |
| Division | Middleweight (185 lbs) – Champion |
| Reach | 75 in (190 cm) |
| Height | 6 ft 2 in (188 cm) |
| Team | Allstars Training Center (Sweden) / UAE Based |
| Net Worth (2026) | ~$3 – $5 Million (Est.) |
Khamzat Chimaev’s Biography
Khamzat Khizarovich Chimaev was born on May 1, 1994, in Gvardeyskoye, Chechnya—during a period of intense conflict. Growing up amid the Chechen Wars shaped his toughness early on. At just two years old, he fell down a flight of concrete steps, leaving a noticeable scar above his lip that still affects his breathing on one side.
Wrestling quickly became his escape. He started training at age five and competed throughout his childhood. In 2013, at age 18, Chimaev and his family fled Chechnya for Sweden, seeking safety, better opportunities, and medical treatment for his older brother Artur. Life in Sweden was far from glamorous—Chimaev worked long shifts in factories and as a security guard while chasing his wrestling dreams.
His nickname “Borz,” meaning “Wolf” in Chechen, highlights his identity and relentless style. He trains at Allstars Training Center in Sweden and now lives in Dubai, representing the UAE inside the UFC Octagon. Standing 6’2″ with a 75-inch reach, he competes at middleweight (185 lbs), blending powerful wrestling with an aggressive stand-up approach.
Chimaev stormed into the UFC in July 2020, earning three wins in just 66 days, a modern UFC record. His rise hasn’t been without setbacks—he battled severe COVID-19 complications in late 2020, which briefly threatened his career. But in August 2025, he completed his comeback story by defeating Dricus du Plessis at UFC 319 to become the UFC Middleweight Champion.
At 31, he remains undefeated and ranked among the top pound-for-pound fighters in the world.
UFC Record
Chimaev holds a perfect professional record of 15-0-0 with an elite finishing rate—7 knockouts and 6 submissions.
| Date | Opponent | Result | Method | Round | Time | Event | Notes |
| Aug 16, 2025 | Dricus du Plessis (c) | Win | Unanimous Decision | 5 | 5:00 | UFC 319: Du Plessis vs Chimaev | Won UFC Middleweight Title; Performance of the Night |
| Oct 26, 2024 | Robert Whittaker | Win | Submission (Face Crank) | 1 | 3:34 | UFC 308 | Performance of the Night |
| Oct 21, 2023 | Kamaru Usman | Win | Majority Decision | 3 | 5:00 | UFC 294 | Short-notice main event |
| Sep 10, 2022 | Kevin Holland | Win | Submission (RNC) | 1 | 2:13 | UFC 279 | Fight Night Bonus; Catchweight (180 lbs) |
| Apr 9, 2022 | Gilbert Burns | Win | Unanimous Decision | 3 | 5:00 | UFC 273 | Fight of the Night |
| Oct 30, 2021 | Li Jingliang | Win | Submission (RNC) | 1 | 3:16 | UFC 267 | Performance of the Night |
| Sep 19, 2020 | Gerald Meerschaert | Win | TKO (Strikes) | 1 | 0:17 | UFC FN: Covington vs Woodley | Performance of the Night (One-punch KO) |
| July 25, 2020 | Rhys McKee | Win | TKO (Strikes) | 1 | 3:09 | UFC on ESPN: Whittaker vs Till | Performance of the Night; Fastest turnaround win in modern UFC history (10 days) |
| Jul 15, 2020 | John Phillips | Win | Submission (D’Arce Choke) | 2 | 1:12 | UFC on ESPN: Kattar vs Ige | UFC Debut; Performance of the Night |
Khamzat Chimaev Net Worth 2026: How Much Does He Make?
As of late 2025, Khamzat Chimaev’s estimated net worth is approximately $4.0 Million to $5.0 Million USD.
Chimaev’s financial status has skyrocketed following his championship victory. As a major draw for the UFC in the Middle East, he commands premium pay-per-view points and high guaranteed purses for his Abu Dhabi and Saudi Arabia appearances.
Average Pay: As the UFC Middleweight Champion, Khamzat Chimaev makes approximately $1.5 Million to $2.5 Million per fight when factoring in his champion’s base salary, PPV share, and lucrative regional sponsorships.
Fight Purse Breakdown and Career Earnings
- Championship Win (UFC 319): His title-winning performance against Dricus Du Plessis reportedly earned him his largest career payday, estimated over $1.8 million including bonuses.
- Sponsorships: Chimaev has massive backing from brands in the UAE and Russia, including Smilodox (apparel), Dragon Energy, and partnerships with local organizations that pay significantly higher than standard western sponsors.
Family: Wife/husband / Girlfriend/boyfriend
Despite being a global star, Chimaev keeps his personal life very private. He married in May 2022 in Chechnya. In 2024, Chimaev revealed he has a son after opening up about the child’s health battles, including surgeries for a kidney condition. He often cites his son as a major motivation for his disciplined lifestyle change.
His family story is rooted in hardship—his mother and brother played vital roles in his move to Sweden and rise through wrestling. His older brother Artur is also a wrestler and a major influence. Chimaev often speaks emotionally about his mother’s sacrifices, including the family’s struggle with poverty during their early years in Sweden.
He maintains close bonds with fighters like Darren Till and Jack Hermansson, often referring to them as extended family.
Where Does Khamzat Chimaev Live and Train Now? (2025–2026 Update)
As of late 2025, Khamzat Chimaev lives in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, where he received citizenship in January 2025. He moved from Sweden to Dubai in 2023 to access world-class training facilities, year-round sunshine, and a more supportive environment for his MMA career. Dubai is now his full-time residence and the headquarters of his team, with regular training at TKmmafit, the gym that celebrated his UFC 319 title victory.
Chimaev’s primary training camp is based in Dubai, but he uses a hybrid approach. For major fights, he splits part of his camp at a secluded Olympic-level wrestling facility in the UAE mountains to maximize focus and intensity with his Russian coaching staff. He also makes occasional trips back to Allstars Training Center in Stockholm, Sweden, for technical refinement under longtime coaches like Andreas Michael and Alan Nascimento. Although he still visits Chechnya and sometimes trains at Akhmat Fight Club in Grozny, Dubai remains his permanent home and the center of his training routine.
When is Khamzat Chimaev Next Fight?
As the newly crowned Middleweight Champion, Khamzat Chimaev doesn’t yet have an official next opponent, but he’s made his intentions loud and clear.
He’s openly called out UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Alex Pereira in pursuit of “Champ-Champ” status and has even hinted that he may move straight up to 205 lbs due to the brutal weight cut at 185.
Still, the UFC expects him to defend his middleweight title once — likely after Ramadan in 2026 — with potential challengers including #2-ranked Nassourdine Imavov or the winner of Sean Strickland vs. Anthony Hernandez on February 21, 2026.
After that, all signs point toward a mid-to-late 2026 light heavyweight debut, ideally against Pereira. Chimaev has even accused the UFC of dragging its feet on making the superfight happen, saying it’s “good for the fans and good for me.”
Achievements And Controversies
- Three-time Swedish National Wrestling Champion.
- UFC Middleweight Champion.
- Has an undefeated professional MMA record.
- Known for never being taken down in UFC fights.
Chimaev’s fast wins and strong performances have made him one of the most exciting fighters in MMA today. He has won several “Performance of the Night” awards in the UFC for his quick and dominant fights.
Even though Khamzat Chimaev is popular, he has faced some controversies:
- COVID-19 Illness: In 2020, Chimaev caught COVID-19, which made him sick for a long time. Some people questioned his ability to return to fighting quickly.
- Weight Class Changes: He has moved between weight classes, which caused some discussions about his fighting strategy and health.
- Fighting Style: Some critics think his aggressive style is too risky and can lead to injuries.
- Personality and Interviews: Occasionally, his statements in interviews have caused debates among fans and media. Some see him as confident, others think he is too bold.
Despite these issues, Chimaev continues to be a top fighter and is working to improve his skills and reputation.
Khamzat Chimaev FAQ
1. Is Khamzat Chimaev undefeated?
Yes. As of 2026, Khamzat Chimaev is undefeated with a professional MMA record of 15-0-0.
2. What weight class does Khamzat Chimaev fight in?
Chimaev currently competes at Middleweight (185 lbs) and plans to move up to Light Heavyweight (205 lbs) in 2026.
3. How old is Khamzat Chimaev?
Khamzat Chimaev was born on May 1, 1994, making him 31 years old as of 2025.
4. What does “Borz” mean?
“Borz,” his nickname, means “Wolf” in Chechen. It represents his aggressive, relentless fighting style.
5. What is the scar on Khamzat Chimaev’s lip from?
He suffered the injury when he fell down concrete stairs at two years old, leaving a permanent scar and affecting his breathing through one nostril.
6. Why did Khamzat Chimaev move to Sweden?
He moved to Sweden in 2013 with his family to escape conflict in Chechnya and to seek better medical care for his brother and more wrestling opportunities.
7. Is Khamzat Chimaev married?
Yes. He got married in May 2022 in Chechnya, though his wife’s identity remains private.
8. Does Khamzat Chimaev have children?
Yes. Chimaev has a son. He publicly discussed his son’s medical struggles (kidney issues) in late 2024 prior to his fight with Robert Whittaker.
9. What gym does Khamzat Chimaev train at?
He trains primarily in Dubai (TKmmafit) and also spends time at Allstars Training Center in Sweden.
10. What is Khamzat Chimaev’s net worth?
His estimated net worth ranges from $4–5 million, with most sources placing it near $5 million.
11. What is next for Khamzat Chimaev?
He is expected to defend his UFC Middleweight Title once in 2026 before moving up to Light Heavyweight to pursue a superfight against Alex Pereira.
12. What languages does Khamzat Chimaev speak?
He speaks Chechen, Russian, Swedish, and English (learning/improving).
13. Did Khamzat Chimaev really retire in 2021?
He briefly announced retirement due to severe COVID-19 complications but later returned after recovering.
14. What fighting style is Khamzat Chimaev known for?
He is known for elite chain wrestling, powerful top control, and high-pressure striking with an emphasis on finishing.
15. What was Khamzat Chimaev’s biggest UFC win?
His biggest career win so far is over Dricus du Plessis at UFC 319, where he became the UFC Middleweight Champion.
16. Has Khamzat Chimaev ever missed weight?
Yes. He infamously missed weight by 7.5 lbs at UFC 279, weighing in at 178.5 lbs for a welterweight bout, which led to major card reshuffling.
17. What is Khamzat Chimaev’s nationality?
He is ethnically Chechen, born in Russia, and later gained Swedish residency after relocating.
18. Does Khamzat Chimaev fight for the UAE?
While originally Swedish-based, Chimaev now represents Dubai/UAE in many promotional appearances and training camps.
19. What is Khamzat Chimaev’s wrestling background?
He is a decorated freestyle wrestler who competed extensively in Sweden and won national-level tournaments.
20. What is Chimaev’s most dangerous weapon?
His pressure-based wrestling, ability to chain takedowns, and overwhelming top control make him one of the most dominant grapplers in the UFC.
Final Thoughts
Khamzat Chimaev’s rise from Chechnya to UFC champion is one of the most remarkable stories in sports. His undefeated record, suffocating style, and star power make him one of the UFC’s most compelling athletes heading into 2026. With a title defense looming and a potential move to light heavyweight on the horizon, Chimaev’s next chapter could be the biggest of his career.
