Ali Akbar Rosady
SportsBreakNews.com – UFC Middleweight Champion Khamzat Chimaev is set for a significant period away from the Octagon, confirming he will be out of action until at least the second quarter of 2026. The dominant champion revealed plans for minor foot surgery, which, combined with his observance of Ramadan, will push his highly anticipated first title defense into the post-Ramadan period of next year.
The announcement came from Chimaev himself during his visit to Qatar, where he was present to corner his friend and fellow fighter Arman Tsarukyan ahead of UFC Qatar. Speaking to Adam Zubayraev, Chimaev detailed the immediate future of his fighting career, citing a necessary medical procedure. "My return – after Ramadan," Chimaev stated. "Right now, I have a small operation on my foot. I’ll step away from training for a couple of weeks, heal my wound. So we’ll prepare after Ramadan, whoever they give me, I’ll face." This declaration provides a definitive, albeit extended, timeline for fans eager to see the "Borz" return to competition.
The medical intervention involves a "small operation" on his foot, the specifics of which were not publicly detailed. Such injuries, even if deemed "minor," often require a recovery period that typically involves rest, rehabilitation, and a gradual return to high-intensity training. For a professional mixed martial artist, whose career depends on peak physical condition and agility, even a short break from training can necessitate several weeks or months of reconditioning to regain fight readiness. The nature of foot injuries in combat sports can be particularly disruptive, impacting fundamental aspects of striking, grappling, and movement crucial for performance at the elite level of the UFC.
Further extending Chimaev’s absence is the observance of Ramadan in 2026. For Muslim athletes, Ramadan is a holy month of prayer, reflection, and fasting from dawn until sunset. In 2026, Ramadan is scheduled to run from approximately February 17 through March 19. Many Muslim fighters, recognizing the physical and spiritual demands of this period, opt not to compete or engage in rigorous training during this time. This practice is widespread across combat sports, with prominent figures such as UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev and legendary former champion Khabib Nurmagomedov consistently adhering to this religious obligation. The combination of post-surgical recovery and the spiritual commitments of Ramadan means Chimaev’s earliest possible return to active competition would be sometime in April 2026 or later, depending on the UFC’s scheduling and his full physical clearance. This effectively rules out any possibility of him fighting in January or February 2026, as would typically be considered for a champion making their first defense.
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Khamzat Chimaev’s rapid ascent through the UFC ranks has been nothing short of spectacular, solidifying his status as one of the most feared and exciting fighters in the promotion. Known for his relentless pressure, powerful wrestling, and formidable striking, Chimaev earned the moniker "Borz" (Wolf) for his predatory style inside the Octagon. His undefeated record and dominant performances quickly propelled him into title contention. His most recent outing saw him claim the UFC Middleweight Championship, though specific details of this title-winning bout were not provided in the original report. Prior to becoming champion, Chimaev had showcased his versatility and grit in multiple weight classes, defeating a series of highly-regarded opponents with a blend of quick finishes and decisive decisions. His ability to seamlessly transition between wrestling and striking, coupled with an iron will, has made him a fan favorite and a nightmare matchup for his adversaries.
The middleweight division, currently under Chimaev’s reign, is one of the most competitive in the UFC. A prolonged absence from its champion is bound to have significant ramifications. Top contenders, who have been vying for a shot at the title, will now face an extended wait or potentially be directed towards interim title fights to keep the division active. Fighters like Sean Strickland, Robert Whittaker, Marvin Vettori, and Jared Cannonier are perennial threats in the 185-pound category, each possessing the skill set to challenge for gold. Chimaev’s absence could trigger a shuffle in the rankings and dictate the matchups that will shape the divisional landscape over the next year. The UFC, known for its strategic matchmaking, will undoubtedly monitor the situation closely, potentially arranging pivotal contender bouts to establish a clear challenger for Chimaev upon his return or, in extreme cases, considering an interim title if his recovery extends beyond initial projections.
While no official opponent has been announced by the UFC for Chimaev’s return, the prevailing sentiment within the sport suggests Nassourdine Imavov is the frontrunner for the first title defense. Imavov, a French fighter with Chechen heritage, has been on an impressive run, cementing his position as a legitimate threat in the middleweight division. The report highlights his remarkable streak of five consecutive victories, a testament to his consistent improvement and high-level performances. Among these reported wins, Imavov is credited with significant triumphs over former UFC Middleweight Champion Israel Adesanya and rising star Caio Borralho. These victories, particularly the one over a fighter of Adesanya’s caliber, would undoubtedly elevate Imavov’s resume to championship challenger status.
Imavov’s fighting style is characterized by his sharp striking, tactical approach, and improving grappling. He possesses a diverse arsenal, capable of landing powerful combinations on the feet and defending takedowns effectively. His recent run demonstrates a fighter who is peaking, showcasing excellent fight IQ and the ability to perform under pressure against elite competition. A matchup between Chimaev and Imavov would pit two highly skilled, aggressive fighters against each other, promising an electrifying contest for fans. Imavov’s momentum and reported impressive victories place him squarely in the conversation for a title shot, making him the logical choice for Chimaev’s first challenge as champion, once both are fit and available.
The logistical challenges presented by Chimaev’s surgery and subsequent recovery, coupled with the religious observance of Ramadan, introduce a layer of complexity for the UFC’s scheduling team. Planning major events and title fights requires months of preparation, including venue bookings, marketing campaigns, and fighter training camps. A champion’s extended layoff, particularly one as prominent as Chimaev, necessitates careful adjustments to the promotion’s calendar. While the UFC has a deep roster of talent, the absence of a marquee fighter like Chimaev for nearly a year can impact pay-per-view sales and overall event appeal. The promotion will need to ensure that the middleweight division remains engaging and that compelling matchups are made to maintain fan interest during this interim period.
As Khamzat Chimaev steps away for surgery and recovery, the middleweight division holds its breath. His return, now firmly slated for after Ramadan in 2026, will be one of the most anticipated events in the UFC calendar. The "Borz" has consistently delivered thrilling performances, and fans will undoubtedly await his comeback to see if he can continue his reign of dominance against the division’s top contenders, with Nassourdine Imavov likely waiting in the wings.
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